Bolted connections of pultruded GFRP: Implications of geometric characteristics on net section failure

The results of a three-dimensional finite element study of the net section dominated failure behaviour of pultruded open-hole specimens are presented. Computer models are developed using the general-purpose software Abaqus. Several issues are addressed in the study with respect to the notched plate geometry: (i) thickness of plate, (ii) transverse centre-to-centre spacing of holes (gauge), and (iii) distance from the centre of the hole to the nearest edge. The analytical results provide information on basic performance and the effects of these parameters on strength and damage tolerance performance, thereby furthering the current understanding of pultruded plate-to-plate connection behaviour under static loading. Based on the results, design recommendations for minimum edge distance and gauge spacing for bolts are given.