BOLJAT: a tool for designing composite bolted joints using three-dimensional finite element analysis

This paper discusses the development of a software tool for design of composite bolted joints, using three-dimensional finite element analysis. The tool allows the user to create the joint geometry through a menu-driven interface and then generate a customised mesh according to the user's needs. Contact parameters are defined automatically, which shields the user from the most difficult part of the process. Boundary conditions, bolt pre-loads, and material properties can also be set. Only a few manual steps are necessary to complete the finite element code generation process. By automating the time-consuming model creation process, the tool facilitates the increased use of three-dimensional finite element analysis in the design of composite bolted joints. A case study is shown to demonstrate the usefulness of the tool.