Mechanical Joining of Aramid Fibre Composites: An Experimental Study

Mechanical joints of carbon fibre composite materials has been the subject of exten sive research in the past decade. Theoretical as well as experimental studies are avail able. In this article the structural use of aramid is examined by an experimental analysis of mechanical joints in various types of laminates. The relationship between bearing strength and laminate type and thickness is investigated and the influence of the pitch/ diameter ratio is studied. The safe failure behaviour typical of aramid composites is demonstrated by testing riveted joints.