Mechanical behaviours and design strengths of single shear bolted connections fabricated with aluminium alloy 7075-T6

Abstract

In the study, experimental study has been performed to investigate the mechanical behaviours such as ultimate strength and fracture mode of single shear bolted connections with aluminium alloy 7075-T6. Main variables are bolt arrangement and end distance. As a result, the specimens failed by shear-out fracture and block shear fracture. Some specimens with a long end distance were accompanied by curling (out of plane deformation). The curling led to a sudden ultimate strength reduction. Moreover, the change of strain distribution was investigated according to curling occurrence. The reliability of design rules for single shear bolted connection in AAA, AISI and AIJ specification is evaluated through comparison between test results and predictions by each current design standard. Lastly, the strength equations considering curling effect and bolt arrangement were proposed and compared with test results. © 2014 W. S. Maney & Son Ltd.