Simulation of the effect of spew on stresses in adhesively-bonded single lap joints

The stress distribution of adhesively-bonded single lap joints with different shape spews was analyzed using two-dimensional elastic-plastic finite element method. The results show that the spews can reduce the stresses of the interface between adhesive layer and adherend largely. The Mises stress, shear stress and peel stress of the interface between adhesive layer and adherend reduce by 20%, 10% and 50% approximately. The influence of different shape spews on stresses in joints is large. When the spews are replaced by metal blocks, the stress peak value of the interface between adhesive layer and adherend reduce more, the position of the peak value of stresses change from inboard to outboard of the spews and the strength of the joints improve more.