Evaluation on the interval values of tolerance fit for the composite bolted joint

The bolted joint has frequently been used to join different components together for the composite materials. However, the effect of tolerance fit on mechanical properties of the composite bolted joint is still ambiguous. In this paper, a three-dimensional numerical model is established and validated by reference experiment for the single-lap composite bolted joint. Then the High Dimension Model Representation (HDMR) using Sobol method is employed to analyse the global sensitivity of tolerance fit, bolt clamping force and friction of contact interfaces. The sensitivity index indicates that the tolerance of composite hole is the most crucial parameter for the mechanical properties of composite bolted joint. Finally, the interval values of tolerance behaviours between bolt shank and laminate hole are investigated numerically based on Six Sigma analysis. The tolerance is analysed by considering the influences of perfect fit, clearance fit and interference fit on mechanical properties. This work provides a meaningful reference for selecting the tolerance fit for the composite bolted joint.