A 3D automatic mesh refinement X-FEM approach for fatigue crack propagation

Abstract

A new approach combining the eXtended Finite Element Method (X-FEM) and automatic Adaptive Mesh Refinement (AMR) is presented taking advantage of both methods. The X-FEM, developed over the past two decades by a large community, have proven its efficiency to handle evolving discontinuities in a variety of fracture analysis. Since this method enables to describe the crack and its propagation independently of the mesh of the structure, a simple hierarchical mesh refinement procedure can be applied. Automatic adaptive remeshing is a valuable method in 3D elastic-plastic crack propagation analysis since it permits a locally fine mesh and then an accurate description of physical quantities in a limited area around the crack front. This is particularly important when local fracture criteria are concerned. Moreover local refinement saves computational effort, which is relevant for engineer-sized problems, particularly when the propagation path is not a priori known. In the present work, it is shown that both methods combine with minimal effort: the kinematic continuity relations and the field transfer process, needed for history-dependent material, must include in a proper way the enrichment of the model. If this requirement is not fulfilled, numerical error may be introduced. Implementation of this combined X-FEM/AMR approach is presented in detail. In particular, an innovative field transfer strategy is proposed. Numerical applications in 2 and 3 dimensions of crack propagation in elastic-plastic media demonstrate accuracy, robustness and efficiency of the technique.