Dears,

I am analyzing a FE Model with Bolted Joint, the Bolts are modeled by beams and connected to the solid elements with Rigid Body element spider, due to the size f the model, I want to use the symmetry of the model. The symmetry plane passes right through the half of one of the bolt. The bolts are modeled by beams of circular cross section. The bolt which is cut by half at the symmetry plane, what cross section of the beam will be used to model that bolt. Is the semi circle cross section will be used for that beam or the regular cross section used for other beams will be used.

Thanks for help.