Theoretical Analysis of Stress Distribution in Weldbonding Lap Joints Under Tension

The stress distribution in each plates and the adhesive layer of weldbonding lap joints under tension was theoretically analyzed by superposition of the solutions of a plane stress problem and a plate bending problem based on the theory of elasticity.

Main results were as follows: (1) theoretical results of stress distribution in the plates corresponded well with the experimental results; (2) the stress concentration at the edges of spot welded part of plates was much relieved by weldbonding; and (3) as the adhesive layer softens with heat, the load shearing at the spot welded part increases, and shear stress at the lap ends decreases.