Analysis and Testing of Adhesively Bonded Aluminum Structural Components

The paper describes problems and suggested solutions in use of adhesive bonding for joining aluminum structures. Different ways to model and analyse a bonded joint are presented along with discussion on various advantages and drawbacks. As an example, the modelling and experimental results of a design exercise on a vehicle front cross-member are presented. The use of detailed joint modelling in determining the influence of local joint geometry on both adhesive and metal stresses is also demonstrated.