Three-dimensional photoelastic stress analysis techniques are used to determine the stress distribution in
a metal-to-metal contact bolted flange. The flange belongs
to a thin-walled stage support casing of a jet aircraft
engine. Of special interest is the state of stress
experienced at flange separation due to axial and bending
loads during severe in-flight maneuvering. Details of model
development, data collection and discussion of results for
the stresses in the bolts and in the vicinity of the flange
are presented.