Dynamic mechanical characteristics of bolted connections under transverse vibration

Transverse vibration can pose a hazard to the safe operation of bolted joint structures. Analyzing the changes in interface clamping force under vibration allows for an accurate assessment of the state of structural connections. The traditional Iwan model is inadequate for effectively evaluating the interface clamping force. In this study, we use a modified Iwan model to examine the dynamic mechanical characteristics of bolted connections, focusing on the evolution of bolt preload and interface clamping force under different vibration conditions. The accuracy of the model to predict the clamping force of the interface is verified by finite element simulation. Further numerical simulations reveal that during vibration, the decrease in interface clamping force is greater than the reduction in bolt preload. In the vibration-stable phase, the fluctuation range of the interface clamping force exceeds that of the bolt preload, and this range increases with larger vibration amplitudes. Using materials with a lower elastic modulus reduces the damage to the connecting interface during the vibration-stable stage. These simulation results confirm the effectiveness of the modified Iwan model.