Torsional Stresses in Tubular Lap Joints with Tapered Adherends

In the current paper, the stress distribution in adhesive‐bonded tubular lap joints with tapered adherends subjected to torsion is analyzed. The two tubular adherends may have different thicknesses and consist of different materials and the adhesive layer may be flexible or inflexible. The analysis is based on the elasticity theory in conjunction with the variational principle of complementary energy. By means of the present approach, the stress‐free end conditions of the joint, which may have significant effect on the stress concentrations, is satisfied and special attention is given to the high stress concentrations in the end zones of the joint. Of equal importance is the investigation of the effect of tapered angles on the stress concentrations. One example is provided to illustrate the effect of tapered angles on the distributions and concentrations of stresses in the joint. It is found that tapered adherends may be utilized to reduce stress concentrations in adhesive joints.