An experimental and finite element study of the torsional behaviour of T-joints in automotive structures

Single box sections and T-joints (two box sections joined together at right angles) are commonly used to represent automotive components, such as pillars and sills, in laboratory testing. In the work presented herein, the torsional properties of T-joints were determined both experimentally and numerically. A factorial-design test programme comparing adhesive-bonded and spot-welded T-joints was carried out. Numerical models, generated using a general-purpose finite element program and validated against the test results, were used to investigate further the behaviour of the connection between the two box sections in a T-joint. The joining technique and the joint eccentricity at the connection (the distance of the join from the vertical box section) were found to influence the torsional properties of T-joints. Finally, an automotive T-component was analysed to examine the applicability of the T-joint results to more complex components.