Abstract
Fatigue crack propagation tests under high–low and low–high block loading sequences have been performed in aluminium alloy specimens. The tests were carried out at constant Δ K conditions. Two stress ratios were analysed: R = 0.05 and R = 0.4. Crack closure was monitored in all tests by the compliance technique using a pin microgauge. The observed transient post load step behaviour is discussed in terms of the load change magnitude, Δ K baseline levels and stress ratio. The crack closure level was obtained and compared with the crack growth transients. A good agreement between experimental and predicted crack growth rates is obtained when the partial crack closure effect is properly taken into account. Therefore, plasticity-induced crack closure plays an important role on the load interaction effects observed in aluminium alloys.
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