Abstract
The fatigue crack growth (fcg) characteristics of metal and alloys are examined in terms of the influence of load ratio, microstructure and gaseous environments. The low fcg region which leads to thresholds is considered and the factors influencing δK and Kmax control of this region discussed. The occurrence of micro structure sensitive fatigue crack growth and the formation of crystallographic facets in a wide range of materials and testing conditions is reported in detail. The intermediate fcg region where linear log δK v log da/dN curves are normally observed and fcg is relatively insensitive to mechanical properties is considered. Results for steels and titanium alloys tested in the intermediate to high fcg regions illustrate the influence of micro structure and environment on the form of the fcg curves. In general the theme of this paper is to illustrate the interplay between the δK and Kmax controlled crack extension processes and how these influence the form of the fcg curves.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
