Load–deflection behaviour of thin-walled plates with a single bolt in shearing

This paper presents an experimental, numerical and analytical study of the behaviour of thin-walled plates connected by a single bolt under shear. Eighteen tests were carried out to provide detailed data of load–deflection and load–strain curves for validation of the finite element simulation model. The validated finite element model was then used to perform a comprehensive set of parametric studies to investigate the effects of different design parameters on the connected plate behaviour, including initial stiffness, ultimate resistance and maximum deformation at the ultimate resistance. It was found that the stiffness and ultimate resistance could be predicted accurately by using existing methods. The analytical study therefore focused on developing a method to calculate the maximum plate deformation (hole elongation) at the ultimate resistance. Based on the parametric study results, methods of calculating the ultimate deformation were proposed, based on different failure modes of the connection.