Lightweight and high-strength interference-fit composite joint reinforced by thermoplastic composite fastener

TLDR: In this article , the TPCF was applied to join composite sheets with interference-fit, aiming at producing a lightweight and high-strength composite joint, which reached the maximum value of 363 MPa when interference size is 1.04, which increases by 19% compared to clearance-fit.

Abstract: The thermoplastic composite fasteners (TPCF) are applied to join the composite sheets with interference-fit in the present study, aiming at producing a lightweight and high-strength composite joint. The interference-fit installation process and tensile process of TPCF joint are analysed by experimental and numerical methods. For the interference size of 0.55% and 1.04%, the interference induces uniform pre-compression stress at the hole wall, the damage of the hole wall and the TPCF is acceptable. As the interference size raises to 2.06%, the damage is catastrophic, the radial stress of the hole wall becomes uneven. The ultimate strength of TPCF joint increases first and then decreases as the interference size increases. The ultimate strength reaches the maximum value of 363 MPa when interference size is 1.04%, which increases by 19% compared to clearance-fit joint. The specific strength of TPCF joint is over three times higher than that of titanium bolted joint.