Rotational factor using bending moment approach under elasto-plastic situation—I. Notch 3PB geometry

Abstract

Theoretical determination of rotational factor is investigated in notched three point bend specimen considering the bending moment arising out of stress distribution in the plane of deformation and fracture. Theoretical formulation and the determination of rotational factor is based on the fact that resultant bending moment about a neutral axis must be zero. Since the stress distribution in the neighbourhood of the notch tip is still a debatable issue, several possible combinations of ligament stress distributions are considered for both elastic and elasto-plastic situations. The rotational factor is found to be in the range 0.26-0.32 for well below the general yield regime and around 0.43 for the general yield situation. However, the experimental values of the rotational factor are found to be in the range 0.50-0.56.