Numerical study on guided wave propagation through bolted lap joint using 3D finite element model

The goal of this paper is studying on guided wave propagation through bolted lap joint using a 3D finite element model. For this purpose, a 3D model of the plate lap joint specimen is simulated in ABAQUS FE software. Piezoelectric transducers are simulated in the model for exciting and receiving guided waves. For propagating guided waves through bolted lap joint two static and a dynamic steps are considered in ABAQUS. Several simulations are done for different pressures, contact frictions and excitation voltages. At first, the effect of bolt load on transmission waves through bolted lap joint is studied. Results show that transmitted guided waves through bolted lap joint are disordered in low pressures because of existing excited waves and non-ideal contact. By increasing pressure, contact between plates is established better and guided waves are transmitted better through lap joint. Also peak to peak amplitude of symmetric mode (S0) is increased and arrival time of S0 mode is decreased by increasing pressure. Then, the Effect of excitation voltages on transmission waves in specific pressure is examined. Results show that just the amplitude of the receiving signal is changed by increasing excitation voltage and arrival time of receiving signal does not change. Finally, the effect of contact friction on transmission waves in various pressures is examined. Results show that arrival time of S0 mode is decreased and peak to peak amplitude of S0 mode is increased by increasing contact friction.