Finite Element Simulation of Fatigue Life Estimation and Crack Path Prediction of Two-dimensional Structures Components

Abstract

The main objective of this work is to analyse fatigue crack propagation of two-dimensional structures under constant amplitude loading using the developed adaptive mesh finite element. The finite element mesh is generated using the advancing front method. The adaptive remeshing process is carried out based on the posteriori stress error norm scheme. The stress intensity factors are estimated by employing the displacement extrapolation technique facilitated by construction of singular crack tip elements. The crack propagation is modelled by the splitting node approach and the trajectory follows the successive linear extensions of each crack increment. The propagation process is driven by linear elastic fracture mechanics approach. In the analysis, the resulted stress intensity factor range at each of crack increments is recorded. Fatigue life cycle can be predicted immediately after completion of the recording by integrating the generalized Paris’ equation. The procedure is applied to the fatigue analysis ...