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Duroplastic gap filling materials in preloaded bolted connections
Author(s) -
Makevičius Lukas,
Stranghöner Natalie,
Kunde Carsten,
Thelen Sebastian
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
ce/papers
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2509-7075
DOI - 10.1002/cepa.1281
Subject(s) - bolted joint , serviceability (structure) , structural engineering , slip (aerodynamics) , materials science , shakedown , engineering , forensic engineering , finite element method , aerospace engineering
In steel structures, bolted connections are preloaded either for load‐bearing capacity reasons or for serviceability reasons. Single and multi‐section connections of wind turbines, offshore plants, bridges etc. are typical application examples. Gap formation due to production‐ and assembly‐related imperfections poses a risk for a controlled application of the required preload level, which is vital for slip‐resistant and fatigue loaded connections. Furthermore, it might significantly affect the desired behaviour of the connection or even lead to premature failure. For this reason, EN 1090‐2 provides regulations on the allowable gap formation and even prescribes measures to avoid negative outcomes. One of the possibilities for a gap compensation are gap filling materials, also known as liquid shim or load transfer materials, such as MM1018 of DIAMANT Metallplastic GmbH, Germany, a two‐component composite system filled with special metallic materials. Currently, systematic investigations into the application of duroplastic gap filling materials in preloaded bolted connections are carried out in the frame of the German cooperation project “Bri‐San‐T ‐ DuroFüllSta”. Herein, the slip factor is experimentally determined according to EN 1090 2, Annex G under variation of application type, gap thickness, curing time, temperature and surface condition. Furthermore, relaxation tests are carried out to determine possible preload losses over the intended service life of the structure. The presented contribution intends to provide an insight into the main properties of duroplastic gap filling materials with regard to their application in preloaded bolted connections under various conditions.