Microslip Joint Damping Prediction Using Thin-Layer Elements

Abstract

In this work, an efficient FE-modeling technique for assembled metallic structures is presented. Linear thin-layer elements containing damping and stiffness parameters are placed on the interfaces of bolted joints. The interface parameters are identified experimentally on an isolated lap joint and then used as an input for the FE-simulation. Since the presented modeling technique is linear, it delivers acceptable results only for small relative displacements in the joint interface, i.e. microslip. Therefore investigations on the transition from micro- to macroslip are conducted. A promising approach to detect macroslip is based on the significant increase of higher harmonic frequency generation. The application of this criterion results in a linear relation between the normal force and the maximum tolerable tangential force.