Fretting Fatigue Failure of TC4‐CFRP Double‐Riveted Structures

Abstract

In this study, the dynamic response of titanium alloy (TC4)‐carbon fiber–reinforced plastic (CFRP) double‐riveted structures under various loads was investigated through experimental method. Complementary finite element analysis under different loading conditions is conducted to elucidate the evolution of stress distribution and elastic deformation within the joint. Specifically, fatigue tests were conducted at loading angles of 0°, 45°, and 90° to compare the dynamic response and evolution process of fretting damage at the contact interface, with simultaneous monitoring of temperature changes. The results demonstrate that fatigue testing process consists of two distinct stages. In the partial slip state under low loads, the temperature had slight fluctuations around 25°C, and the two plates did not fail. During the gross slip state under high loads, the temperature reached approximately 70°C, leading to fatigue failure of CFRP. Moreover, surface damage patterns were similar across angles, whereas 0° loading was subjected to greater excitation. At a load of 10 kN, the fatigue life under 0° loading exceeded 1 million cycles, and it was approximately 2000 times longer than that under 45° and 90° loadings. Hence, 0° loading was more favorable for double‐riveted structures, even though a period of complete slip appeared in the early fatigue stage under the 0° loading mode.