Non-tubular bonded joint under torsion: Theory and numerical validation

The paper analyzes the problem of torsion in an adhesive non-tubular bonded single-lap joint. The joint considered consists of two thin rectangular section beams bonded together along a side surface. Assuming the materials involved to be governed by linear elastic laws, equilibrium and compatibility equations were used to arrive at an integro-differential relation whose solution makes it possible to determine torsional moment section by section in the bonded joint between the two beams. This is then used to determine the predominant stress and strain field at the beam-adhesive interface (stress field along the direction perpendicular to the interface plane, equivalent to the applied torsional moment and the corresponding strain field) and the joint\'s elastic strain (absolute and relative rotations of the bonded beam cross sections). All the relations presented were obtained in closed form. Results obtained theoretically are compared with those given by a three dimensional finite element numerical model. Theoretical and numerical analysis agree satisfactorily.