Abstract
This paper compares analytical failure predictions for a flawed PWR vessel from linear elastic and elastic-plastic fracture mechanics, as currently permissible by ASME code. The significant conservatism under upper-shelf conditions provided by the first approach has been quantified in terms of internal pressure and wall-thickness strain gradient. Monotonic crack growth withstood by the assessed component has been evaluated through several elastic-plastic criteria, and leak-before-break and related crack-arrest events have been inferred to be likely the deeper the postulated pre-crack is. Research results indicate that logarithmic J-R curve data fitting is more appropriate and conservative than the conventionally used power law in regard to extensive crack propagation. Conservative linear elastic and elastic-plastic predictions have also been confirmed by testing small-scale and/or deeply sidegrooved testpieces.
Published Version
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