Prediction of fatigue crack growth rates using crack closure finite element analysis. (English) Zbl 1125.74046

Alizadeh, Hassan; Simandjuntak, Sarinova; Smith, David; Pavier, Martyn

Int. J. Fatigue 29, No. 9-11, 1711-1715 (2007).

Summary: A three-dimensional finite element fatigue crack closure model of a corner crack and of through-thickness crack has been developed to evaluate the effective stress intensity factor from the distribution of stresses ahead of the crack tip. The corresponding fatigue crack growth rate is evaluated from Paris law fitted to experimental data from high-stress-ratio tests. The point of origin of stress distribution is adjusted in accordance with Irwin’s plastic zone correction. Encouraging comparisons of finite element predictions of fatigue crack growth rate incorporating closure effects with experimental measurements are obtained.

MSC:

74R20	Anelastic fracture and damage
74G70	Stress concentrations, singularities in solid mechanics
74S05	Finite element methods applied to problems in solid mechanics

Keywords:

effective stress intensity factor; Paris law; Irwin’s plastic zone correction