A finite element code for fracture propagation analysis within elasto-plastic continuum

Abstract

A new code for the simulation of mixed-mode fracture propagation within a body deforming elasto-plastically is presented in this paper. The analysis is fully automated in that it requires no user interaction. An automatic local remeshing technique is developed based on the window remeshing technique of Murti [Numerical fracture mechanics using finite element methods. Ph.D.Thesis, University of New South Wales (1986)]. This algorithm ensures that proper element geometries are maintained in the crack tip vicinity and that reasonable shaped elements are preserved further away from the crack tip. A new approach was developed to predict the fracture trajectory under load or displacement control. This new approach is particularly suited to applications where the applied loads or displacements are the controlling factors rather than the crack extension. The code incorporates recently developed profile reduction and mesh rezoning techniques for increased efficiency. The capability of this new code is demonstrated by application to a number of practical problems.