Two finite length cracks moving between strips under plane extension

Abstract

The problem of the two coplanar uniformly propagating finite cracks in the strip of elastic material is solved. Two specific conditions of loading on the strip with finite width are discussed. In the first case the rigidly clamped edges are pulled apart in opposite directions. In the second case equal and opposite tractions are applied to edges of the strip. By the use of Fourier transforms we reduce the first problem to solving a set of triple integral equations with cosine kernel and a weight function. These equations are solved by using finite Hubert transform techniques for large values of h where 2 h is the width of the strip. Finally, numerical values for dynamic stress intensity factors are presented graphically. It is shown that the solution of the second problem can be obtained in a manner similar to the first case.