Finite Element Analysis of Self-Pierce Riveted Joints

Abstract

Self-pierce riveting (SPR) is a sheet material joining technique which is suitable for joining dissimilar materials, as well as coated and pre-painted materials. Published work relating to finite element analysis of SPR joints is reviewed in this paper, in terms of process, static strength, fatigue strength, vibration characteristics and assembly dimensional prediction of the SPR joints. A few important numerical issues are discussed, including material modelling, meshing procedure, failure criteria and friction between substrates and between rivet and substrate. It is concluded that the finite element analysis of SPR joints will help future applications of SPR by allowing system parameters to be selected to give as large a process window as possible for successful joint manufacture. This will allow many tests to be simulated that would currently take too long to perform or be prohibitively expensive in practice, such as modifications to rivet geometry, die geometry or material properties. The main goal of the paper is to review recent progress in finite element analysis of SPR joints and to provide a basis for further research.

Shear Stress Discontinuities in Adhesive Joints

“…As a result of the trend towards lightweight construction in manufacturing, different sheet material joining techniques are widely used in different industrial fields in recent years [1][2][3][4][5]. Adhesively bonded beams are also becoming a widespread candidate joints for joining structural components.…”

Effect of Adhesive Behavior on Normal Stress Distributions in the Single-Lap Adhesive Joints

“…The need to design light weight structures and the increased use of light weight materials which are difficult or impossible to weld, has produced a significant increase in the use of some sheet materials joining techniques in engineering structures and components [1][2][3][4][5].…”

Analysis of the Mechanical Interlock Sliding in Self-Pierce Riveting Joints

“…Self-piercing riveting is a cold forming process, in which a semi-tubular rivet, pressed by a plunger, pierces through the thickness of the upper sheet and inserts into the under sheet, forming a mechanical interlock between the two sheets [1][2][3][4]. SPR is known as the new generation jointing technique, and it has been becoming an important alternative technique for the aluminum sheet jointing in automobile industry.…”