Strength and Failure of Self-Piercing Riveted Aluminum and Steel Sheet Joints: Multi-axial Experiments and Modeling

The mechanical failure of self-piercing rivet (SPR) joints connecting seven series aluminum and high strength steel sheets is investigated, both numerically experimentally. joint mechanisms are characterized for a total four distinct loading modes, including the lap-shear, cross-tension, inclined cross tension coach peel. For analysis underlying influential parameters in each case, designs with equal sheet thickness head diameters considered. highest values obtained lap-shear all types, while interlock observed to pair increased cross-tension values. Moreover, mode which energy absorbed directly relates type. Depending on material combination be joined, either or coach-peel cases yielded absorption. experimental results indicate that hardness bottom have favorable impact associated deformation response. lowest employed (H4) was proven sufficient prevent types employed, despite substantial equivalent plastic strains developed it. Furthermore, interlocks were noted primarily affect lap shear mode, inducing significant damage upon fracture, response other remain practically insensitive magnitude.