Numerical model for investigation of the strain distribution in thick composite plates subjected to bolt loads

In this study, strain distributions in a thick composite plate subjected to bolt loads have been investigated both numerically and experimentally. Recently, major industries such as aerospace, automobile and marine are interested in development of thick composite applications. One of these applications is the yoke of the helicopter, which connects main blades to the rotor hub using bolt joints. In the present work, a three dimensional finite element model of a thick composite plate subjected to bolt loads is created using ANSYS 14.5. Strains at the surface (around the washer) and along the laminate thickness have been measured using strain gages and Digital Image Correlation method, in order to verify simulation results. The model is used to investigate the effect of thickness on distributions of interlaminar stresses.