Effect of Squeezing Force on Crack Propagation Life of Lap Riveted Structures

This paper aims to study the effect of different squeezing forces on the crack propagation life of lap riveted structures with initial damage. By combining the revised Paris formula with a detailed finite element model of the lap riveted structure, the strain energy release rate and crack tip stress intensity factor at different crack propagation stages were calculated with the virtual crack closure method. The crack propagation life of lap riveted structures with initial damage under different squeezing forces was estimated. Three lap riveted structure specimens with initial damage and different squeezing forces of 17.54, 20.23, and 23.24 kN were prepared. The crack propagation life test indicated that the average crack propagation lives of the specimens were 53,196, 106,005, and 122,637, respectively. With increased squeezing force, the crack propagation life of the lap riveted structure specimens with initial damage also increases. The crack propagation path and crack propagation life of the specimens were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Controlling or predicting the crack propagation process significantly prevents structural failure and prolongs structural life. The research results in this paper can be used to guide the optimal design and manufacture of lap riveted structures.