Smoothed floating node method for modelling 2D arbitrary crack propagation problems

In this work, Floating Node Method (FNM), first developed for fracture modelling of laminate composites, is coupled with cell-wise strain Smoothed Finite Element Method (SFEM) for modelling 2D linear elastic fracture mechanics problems. The proposed method is termed as Smoothed Floating Node Method (SFNM). In this framework, FNM is used to...

Numerical simulation on reflective cracking behavior of asphalt pavement

Cracks are one of the main problems that plague road workers. A correct understanding of the internal crack propagation mechanism of asphalt pavement will help road workers evaluate the road’s working status more comprehensively and make more reasonable decisions in design, construction, and maintenance work. This paper established a three...

Floating node method with domain-based interaction integral for generic 2D crack growths

The Floating Node Method (FNM), first developed for modeling the fracture behavior of laminate composites, is here combined with a domain-based interaction integral approach for the generic fracture modeling of quasi-brittle materials from crack nucleation, propagation to final failure. In this framework, FNM is used to represent the...

Stress intensity factors of the rib-to-deck welded joint at the crossbeam conjunction in OSDs

The orthotropic steel decks (OSDs) are one of the most widely used bridge components, especially in moveable and long span bridges. Numerous cracks have been detected in this type of deck in existing bridges, mainly in the welded joints. The fatigue performance of the bridge deck dominates its design. Among them, the crack at the rib-to-deck...

Computation of stress intensity factors in an initiating RCF crack using a 3D modelling approach

Useful lifetime prediction software for plane semi-cracks in 3-D solid configurations

Computer programs are described to be used for fracture control purposes. Crack growth lifetimes can be predicted for plane cracks in 3-D structures. Values for stress intensity (K-) distributions at crack fronts are derived from data being available from literature for a restricted number of simple configurations. For arbitrary configurations...

Damage tolerance of stiffened-skin structures: prediction and experimental verification

Some consequences of application of the current damage tolerance airworthiness requirements for transport aircraft in designing stiffened-skin structures to be safe under all operational load conditions are discussed. Compliance with these requirements may be shown by analysis supported by test evidence. To provide the designer with analytical...

The application of fracture mechanics to the growth of creep cracks

The literature concerning the application of fracture mechanics to the growth of creep cracks is discussed. As an introduction it is shown that linear elastic fracture mechanics have been applied successfully to the residual strength of brittle materials crack growth due to stress corrosion and crack growth due to fatigue. Next the methods are...

Fracture toughness and corrosion properties of the aluminium plate alloys 7010-T651 and 7150-T6E189

A comparative experimental investigation was done on the advanced plate alloys 7010-T651 from ALCAN and 7150-T6E189 from ALCOA. The mechanical properties, fracture toughness and corrosion properties were determined. The most notable finding was the excellent fracture toughness of alloy 7150-T6E189 combined with a high tensile strength. The...

Application of finite element methods to the analysis of cracks: final report

The applicability of finite element methods to the analysis of cracks was studied in three phases. In the first phase the available methods for the calculation of elastic stress intensity data for cracks of arbitrary shape using finite element techniques were evaluated. The indirect energy release method using virtual crack front variation was...

NLR test results as a database to be used in a check of crack propagation prediction models: A Garteur activity

The report describes a joint Garteur activity in the field of the prediction of crack propagation under variable amplitude loading. Existing crack propagation models or models under development will be checked with NLR crack propagation data of 202U-T3 Alclad 2 mm sheet material under F-27 Spectrum flight simulation loading. After completion of...