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Abstract

This paper presents the use of piezoceramics (PZT) actuator-sensor to quantitatively detect damage of bolted joints. Basic principle of this technique is to utilize high-frequency excitation through surface-bonded PZT actuator-sensor to detect changes in structural properties due to damage. The structure used in this study consists of two aluminum beams connected by a bolted joint. Damage is simulated by loosening of the bolts . To quantitatively monitor the damage, a numerical model of the structure is formulated by using spectral element method (SEM). A bonded-PZT beam and a bolted joint element are developed. Experimental results show the ability of this method to detect the damage . By using the proposed model, the loosening of bolts can be quantitatively identified as the change in stiffness and damping at the bolted joint.