The application of an approximate analysis of the diffusion process for a description of creep and creep rupture

Abstract

An analysis of the environmental effect on creep and creep rupture of metals is presented. It is pointed that the investigation of the diffusion processes leads to significant computational difficulties. These difficulties arise on representing the solution of the diffusion equation with variable boundaries in the form convenient for analysis. The process of damage accumulation is modelled for a material, which is subjected to the combined action of mechanical loads and the aggressive environment. The Rabotnov kinetic theory is applied in which two parameters are taken into account: the damage of the material and the concentration of chemical elements reducing the resistance of the material to mechanical loads. An approximate solution of the diffusion equation is suggested for rod or shell subjected to axial tension. This solution is based on dividing the cross-section of rod or shell into the disturbed and undisturbed parts and determining the motion of the boundary between these parts. The system of constitutive equations which describe the interaction between the diffusion and rupture fronts during the creep process until failure is obtained. A good quantitative agreement between experimental and theoretical results has been received.