Influence of bolt dynamic installation on topography characteristics and mechanical behaviors of CFRP interference-fit bolted joints

As the controlled research of Dynamic Installation (DI) and Static Installation (SI), a new interference installation method was developed based on electromagnetic loading to enhance the mechanical properties of composite structures. Four different interference-fit sizes were considered, ranging from a net fit to 2.0%. The experiments were conducted to evaluate the installation resistance and the mechanical behavior of the joint under external loads. Meanwhile, an FEA model to model the stress distribution and damage behavior of the bolt-hole contact interface was established. The load-displacement curve and damage modes of experiments were used to verify the FEA results. The results show that the installation resistance during DI process was remarkably lower than that of SI process corresponding to all interference-fit sizes, and the stress amplitudes induced by interference were larger and widely distributed. The damage of the hole wall was positively correlated with interference fit size, but DI can significantly reduce the damage compared to SI. In performance tests, DI enhanced the static bearing capacity and extended longer fatigue life of the joints than SI. DI methods can be an effective way to achieve highly reliable interference joints in composite structures.