Work

A Comparison of Discrete Crack and Smeared Crack Methods Applied to CFRP/Al Riveting Damage Modeling

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Carbon-fiber-reinforced-polymer/aluminum (CFRP/Al) double-sided countersunk riveted joint is a key joining technology for lightweight and high-performance aircraft structures. Advanced numerical simulation techniques are helpful in predicting riveting damage evolution and the optimization of the joining process. In this study, a discrete crack modeling (DCM) method based on the floating node method (FNM) was employed to investigate the initial riveting damage behavior and interference characteristics during the electromagnetic riveting (EMR) process with five cases of rivet-hole clearances. The results were compared with those obtained from the conventional smeared crack method (SCM). The findings show that the interference distribution along the axial direction of the joint is non-uniform, and increasing the rivet-hole clearance helps alleviate the initial riveting damage. The FNM accurately modeled the initiation and propagation of matrix cracks and delamination, albeit at the cost of some computational efficiency.

Source: Materials

DOI: 10.3390/ma18194511

Authors: Minghao Zhang, Kun Tian, Zengqiang Cao, Tong-Earn Tay

Institutions: Northwestern Polytechnical University, Tongji University, National University of Singapore

Language: English

Topic: Mechanical Behavior of Composites

Subfield: Mechanics of Materials

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137