Appendix X.H
Bolt group redistribution of connection loads

Sometimes, the finite element model of part of a structure does not allow to obtain reliable estimates of connection loads. This is the case for example:

• When RBE2 or RBE3 elements are used to distribute connection loads on a larger area of the model.
• When very stiff and coarsely modeled parts are assembled together.
• When thermo-elastic environments lead to unrealistic reactions in connections.
• ...

Then, bolt group re-distributions allow to produce smoother distribution of connection loads from an initial distribution produced by FEM solver.

We present here the equations that govern the redistribution of loads on a bolt group. The equations are inspired by similar equations developed in [eEL94] for the calculation of a solid motion.