This was an information dense set of lectures with many new things introduced, but here are some of the main concepts to remember.

What is a mechanical fastener?

A mechanical fastener is a pin-like structure that transmits loads from one part to another via mechanical interlocking. We typically classify the fastener in terms of the major mode in which the fastener is loaded: shear or tension.

Load transfer and secondary loads

Using the single-lap shear joint as a basic example of a mechanically fastened joint, we can observe different load transfer mechanisms (bearing, friction, and bypass) as well as secondary loads (secondary bending and interference). Understanding each of these loads and its effect on structural performance is key to the design of mechanically fastened joints.