Högskolan i Skövde

Analysis of the three-point flexure loading of a symmetric beam configurationconsisting of two identical adherends joined by a flexible layer is presented. Aclosed-form solution is presented in the form of a layer-wise approach, andshows excellent agreement with finite element results. Particular emphasis isgiven to the global beam compliance. The results show that a thin, sheardeformable layer may effectively decouple the responses of the two beams.Furthermore, in contrast to ordinary beams, the presence of an overhangreduces the beam compliance. These effects are quantified and discussed.Experiments on aluminum adherends joined by a rubber layer were conductedover a range of overhang lengths in a three-point flexure fixture, and verygood agreement between measured and predicted beam compliance was noted.