The loading and the failure mode of metal hexagon bolt joints and metal counter-sunk bolt joints of C/C composites were investigated. The joints were tested for out-of-plane loading at two temperatures (600 °C and 800 °C). The failure morphology of a lap plate was investigated, and the main failure modes were determined. The typical load-displacement curve was characterized and the test was simulated using ABAQUS non-linear finite element software. Furthermore, progressive damage was induced, and comparison of the finite element simulation with the experimental data revealed that the failures mainly occurred in the lower lap plate and were dominated by cracking and delamination of the matrix, accompanied by the pull-out of a small number of piercing fibers. Finally, the influences of the temperature, nut radius, and fixture geometry on the critical load were determined via simulation.
Keywords: C/C composites; failure mechanism; finite element; out-of-plane loading; progressive damage.