Failure modes prediction of multi-pin joints FRP laminates by limit analysis

The paper presents the results of a wide range of numerical tests carried out by the authors to validate a design methodology founded on the application of limit analysis theory. Such methodology has been applied to a specific problem of industrial interest, namely the analysis of multi-pin joints composite laminates. The results, in terms of upper and lower bounds to the peak load of the examined multi-pin fastenings, have been expounded in a companion paper while in the present study attention is focused on the prediction of the fastenings failure mode. The comparison between the numerically predicted failure modes and the experimentally detected ones, shows that the proposed methodology furnishes reliable information also on this aspect of the problem, the latter being an essential requisite for design purposes and/or manufacturing technologies. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.