Abstract: Interference fit has advantages in improving the mechanical performance of blind rivet in connections for composite materials. However, the installation of blind rivets under interference fit leads to the damage of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) laminates, weakening the mechanical performance of the joints. In this paper, based on continuous damage mechanics, extended three-dimensional failure criteria and strain rate effect, a complete blind rivet model, which combining finite element method and secondary development of Abaqus was developed to study the effect of interference and installation speed on the damage of composite materials. From the simulation results, the installation resistance force exhibits two typical stages, which are generated by the friction between the aluminum alloy and the CFRP laminate with the blind rivet, respectively. Under interference fit conditions, a higher installation speed is highly advantageous in reducing installation resistance. However, excessive installation speed can lead to increased damage to the hole walls, which is especially noticeable in cases of high interference fit. The failure mode of the joint is mainly caused by CFRP damage and is significantly influenced by the interference size.