Fatigue Damage Research Articles

A novel approach for analyzing linear amplitude sweep (LAS) test data of asphalt binders

Fatigue cracking is one of the crucial distresses considered for the design of flexible pavements. The initiation of fatigue cracking occurs in the binder phase of an asphalt mixture. The linear amplitude sweep (LAS) test was developed to analyze the fatigue damage in the asphalt binder. AASHTO T391 provides a method to analyze the LAS test data by fitting a power equation between the fatigue parameter (G*sinδ) and damage intensity. This method has some inherent weaknesses of overfitting or underfitting of the data at different damage levels. This study proposes a new method where a total curve is divided into two parts that fit the data in two different equations and then sum them up. The first part comprises of the data up to cumulative damage corresponding to the maximum effective stress, and the second part consists of accumulated damage in the material till it reaches the maximum strain (30 %). This method is called the bifurcation method in this paper. LAS test data of 27 long-term aged bitumen samples having different physical properties is used to determine the number of fatigue life cycles (Nf) by these two methods, and results are compared in terms of mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), root mean square error (RMSE), and residual sum of squares (RSS). It is shown that there is a significant reduction in the errors when the data fitting was done using the proposed bifurcation method. Further, the ranking was allotted to the samples based on the number of fatigue life cycles (Nf) at three different strain levels (2.5 %, 5 %, and 10 %) at intermediate-temperature conditions estimated using two methods. The shift indicator parameter was used to analyze the variability in the ranking of the samples due to changes in the strain levels. The study concludes that the proposed bifurcation method fits the predicted values more accurately than the prescribed power law.

Fatigue behavior of multi-row film cooling holes manufactured by lasers with different pulses under complex-temperature fields

This research investigates the fatigue behavior of multi-row film cooling holes produced by lasers with diverse pulse widths amid intricate thermal environments. Through laser drilling experiments, conjugate heat transfer simulations, and crystal plasticity finite element analyses, it explores the interplay of temperature and stress fields among multiple holes in these structures, and factors influencing fatigue damage and its severity. Additionally, it anticipates the fatigue fracture paths of multi-row film cooling hole structures. Findings reveal that while the drilling process and aerodynamic parameters significantly impact cooling effectiveness, their influence on cooling distribution is negligible. Fatigue damage distribution is shaped by structural imperfections from different processes, stress field interference among multiple holes, and material property alterations due to temperature changes. The extent of damage is primarily dictated by roundness errors resulting from the drilling process, with taper playing a minor role. Nonetheless, stress interference among multiple holes notably exacerbates stress concentration at the interference zone, leading to increased damage levels in film cooling holes crafted by picosecond lasers with minimal roundness errors. Moreover, in complex thermal environments, fatigue fracture paths of multi-row film cooling holes migrate and evolve contingent on temperature-induced shifts in material properties.

A numerical procedure for calculating ice-induced fatigue damage for ship hulls in level ice

Ship hulls advancing in level ice are exposed to considerable cyclic ice loadings, which might cause fatigue damage, threatening the structural integrity and endangering the crews’ lives. Ice-induced fatigue problem is of significance to ice-going ships. In this paper, a fatigue analysis for ship structures in level ice is performed based on a dedicated 6-degree-of-freedom (6-DOF) numerical model of ice-ship interaction, founded on a circumferential crack assumption. The numerical procedure considers the time-varying instantaneous waterline and the couplings between ship motions and external forces. The local ice loads used for fatigue assessment can be obtained from numerical simulations, and the random load peaks are represented by Weibull distribution. A case study of fatigue calculation for designated transverse frames is carried out, of which the applied stress is converted from ice loads by means of structural beam theory. Eventually, according to a proper S-N curve, the fatigue damages are evaluated on the basis of Palmgren–Miner rule, respectively under the operational scenarios of laterally symmetrical and asymmetrical initial ice edges.

Novel integration of PSO-enhanced damage mechanics and finite element method for predicting medium–low-cycle fatigue life in perforated structures

In this research, we introduce an innovative approach that combines the Continuum Damage Mechanics-Finite Element Method (CDM-FEM) with the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO)-based technique, to predict the Medium-Low-Cycle Fatigue (MLCF) life of perforated structures. First, fatigue tests are carried out on three center-perforated structures, aiming to assess their fatigue life under various strengthening conditions. These tests reveal significant variations in fatigue life, accompanied by an examination of crack initiation through the analysis of fatigue fracture surfaces. Second, an innovative fatigue life prediction methodology is applied to perforated structures, which not only forecasts the initiation of fatigue cracks but also traces the progression of damage within these structures. It leverages an elastoplastic constitutive model integrated with damage and a damage evolution model under cyclic loads. The accuracy of this approach is validated by comparison with test results, falling within the three times error band. Finally, we explore the impact of various strengthening techniques, including cross-sectional reinforcement and cold expansion, on the fatigue life and damage evolution of these structures. This is achieved through an in-depth comparative analysis of both experimental data and computational predictions, which provides valuable insights into the behavior of perforated structures under fatigue conditions in practical applications.

Economic burden and quality of life of caregivers of patients with sickle cell disease in the United Kingdom and France: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundSickle cell disease (SCD), a genetic blood disorder that affects red blood cells and oxygen delivery to body tissues, is characterized by haemolytic anaemia, pain episodes, fatigue, and end-organ damage with acute and chronic dimensions. Caring for patients with SCD imposes a high burden on informal caregivers. This study aims to capture the impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and economic burden of caregiving for patients with SCD.MethodsValidated instruments of HRQoL (EQ-5D-5L, Carer Quality of Life-7 dimensions [CarerQol-7D]) and productivity (Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire: Specific Health Problem [WPAI: SHP]) were administered via a cross-sectional online survey to caregivers in the United Kingdom (UK) and France. Demographics, HRQoL, and economic burden data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Economic burden was determined using country-specific minimum and average wage values. Subgroup analysis examined caregivers with and without SCD.ResultsSixty-nine caregivers were recruited (UK, 43; France, 26), 83% were female, and 22% had SCD themselves. The mean (SD) caregiver EQ-5D-5L score was 0.66 (0.28) (UK, 0.62; France, 0.73), and the mean CarerQol-7D score was 80.69 (24.40) (UK, 78.72 [25.79]; France, 83.97 [22.01]). Mental health problems were reported in 72% and 70% of caregivers measured using the EQ-5D-5L and CarerQol-7D, respectively. Financial problems were reported by 68% of caregivers, with mean annual minimum wage productivity losses of £4209 and €3485, increasing to £5391 and €9319 for average wages. Sensitivity analysis determined additional HRQoL decrements for caregivers with and without, SCD.ConclusionCaring for patients with SCD impacts the HRQoL and economic burden of caregivers. Further research to support the complex needs of SCD caregivers is required.

Fatigue Damage Evolution in SS316L Produced by Powder Bed Fusion in Different Orientations with Reused Powder Feedstock

Abstract Background Metal Laser Powder Bed Fusion Melting (LPBF-M) is considered economically viable and environmentally sustainable because of the possibility of reusing the residual powder feedstock leftover in the build chamber after a part build is completed. There is however limited information on the fatigue damage development of LPBF-M samples made from reused feedstock. Objective In this paper, the stainless steel 316 L (SS316L) powder feedstock was examined and characterised after 25 reuses, following which the fatigue damage development of material samples made from the reused powder was assessed. Methods The suitability of the powder to LPBF-M technology was evaluated by microstructural observations and measurements of Hall flow, apparent and tapped density as well as Carr’s Index and Hausner ratio. LPBF-M bar samples in three build orientations (Z – vertical, XY – horizontal, ZX – 45° from the build plate) were built for fatigue testing. They were then subjected to fatigue testing under load control using full tension and compression cyclic loading and stress asymmetry coefficient equal to -1 in the range of stress amplitude from ± 300 MPa to ± 500 MPa. Results Samples made from reused powder (25 times) in the LPBF-M process exhibited similar fatigue performance to fresh unused powder although a lower ductility for vertical samples was observed during tensile testing. Printing in horizontal (XY) and diagonal (ZX) directions, with reused powder, improved the service life of the SS316L alloy in comparison to the vertical (Z). Conclusions Over the 25 reuses of the powder feedstock there was no measurable difference in the flowability between the fresh (Hall Flow: 21.4 s/50 g) and reused powder (Hall Flow: 20.6 s/50 g). This confirms a uniform and stable powder feeding process during LPBF-M for both fresh and reused powder. The analysis of fatigue damage parameter, D, concluded cyclic plasticity and ratcheting to be the main mechanism of damage.

A tail probability density distribution model of stress amplitude under band-limited stochastic vibration loadings

Resonance of engineering structures under stochastic vibration loadings is a primary cause of fatigue failure. Considering that cyclic loadings below the fatigue limit of the material contribute little to fatigue damage, the portion of the stress amplitude distribution that exceeds the fatigue limit is in focus in this paper, and a tail probability density distribution model of stress amplitude under band-limited stochastic vibration loadings is proposed. First, the response stress power spectral density functions under band-limited loadings are simulated by using the normal distribution and the Weibull distribution, respectively, and then the frequency domain signals are converted into time domain signals by adopting the inverse fast Fourier transform method. A two-parameter Weibull model of tail probability density distribution of stress amplitude is proposed, and the relationship between model parameters and power spectral moment parameters is given. Finally, the comparative analysis of the model accuracy and the vibration fatigue test of aluminum alloy notch specimen are carried out. It is demonstrated that the fatigue life predicted by the presented model is highly coincident with the results of tests and the time domain method.

The multi-scale damage evolution of nano-modified concrete under the cold region tunnel environment based on micromechanical model

In cold region tunnel construction environments, concrete performance often deteriorates due to consistently low temperatures. Nanomaterials, as efficient admixtures, can significantly improve the pore structure of concrete. Given the significant impact of pore structure characteristics on concrete performance in cold regions, this study investigates the effects of nanomaterial modification on concrete using a micromechanical model. In-situ CT tests on nano-modified concrete provided digital volume images of the pore structure. The region-growing algorithm (RGA) and digital volume correlation (DVC) method were used to reveal pore structure evolution. The microscopic damage during the phase transition of pore water was analyzed based on the pre-melting dynamic theory and the micromechanical model. The fatigue damage mechanism and generalized self-consistent model were employed to study the macroscopic performance. The results indicate that while nanomaterials do not significantly inhibit the formation of small pores/defects in concrete, they can effectively prevent the interconnection between pores. This suppression leads to fewer larger pores forming. However, the thinner matrix concrete around these large pores results in more severe damage.

Fatigue damage mechanics approach to predict the end of incubation and breakthrough of leading edge protection coatings for wind turbine blades

The state of the surface of the leading edge of wind turbine blades is important for optimal aerodynamic performance. Rain erosion leads to damage and roughness on the leading edge. In this study, we present an approach to predict the level of roughness of the leading edge based on fatigue damage accumulation due to impacts of rain droplets. Impact simulations of droplets on the protective coating layer are coupled with rain erosion test data and fatigue S-N curves. Fatigue damage values are then related to surface roughness levels. An approach to extract S-N curve parameters from a rain erosion test and then make predictions for other coatings based only on the output of impact simulations is presented and tested against test data. Both the end of incubation and coating breakthrough times are predicted with this approach. Stress, strain and energy density values were used as fatigue damage indicators and the respective predictions were compared to each other. It was found that the maximum principal strain gave the best predictions and matched the experimental trends.

Crack failure behaviors of Ti–6Al–4V dovetail joints subjected to fretting fatigue and effect of laser shock dimple-textured surface coated with diamond-like carbon film

Fretting damage can lead to a reduction in fatigue strength by more than half, due to the increased stress on the fretting surface, which accelerates crack initiation and propagation. Laser shock peening (LSP) technology is an advanced method for protecting against fretting fatigue, which reduces the effective stress on the fretting surface of components by introducing a deeper compressive residual stress field. In this work, LSP was utilized to create regularly arranged dimples on the surface of titanium alloy dovetail joints, and followed by diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating to alter fretting friction. Five surface treatment samples including as-machined, conv-LSP, LSP dimple-textured, DLC, LSP dimple-textured + DLC, were prepared for fretting fatigue tests on dovetail joints. The experimental results showed that the fatigue performance of specimens treated with LSP dimple-textured + DLC is better. Furthermore, it is found that wear debris from fretting surface was discharged into crack source area during fretting fatigue, leading to the formation of a fracture debris area forms in the crack initiation zone. The crack initiation zone displays the protrusion morphology characteristics due to the friction effect induced by contact loads. There is an internal correlation between the size of fracture debris area and surface wear resistance. Fracture debris area and the protrusion morphology vary with surface treatments and applied load. This research further reveals that the variation characteristics of the crack initiation area including the fracture debris area, have a positive influence on observing and analyzing failure behavior of fretting fatigue damage.

Mechanism-based shift factors to predict the fatigue performance of cemented pavement materials

Cemented pavement materials (CPMs) are essential components in pavement structures, yet accurately predicting their service life due to fatigue damage remains challenging. Laboratory fatigue test results are commonly employed to predict the service life of CPMs by applying a lab-to-field shift factor (SF). However, traditional approaches rely heavily on experimental data, posing challenges in ensuring the certainty of lab-to-field results. Additionally, inconsistencies in lab-to-field fatigue failure criteria further complicate SF development. To address these challenges, this study proposes a mechanism-based methodology for developing SF. This methodology comprises a rigorous two-scale fatigue model developed by the authors to characterise the fatigue performance of CPMs at the lab scale and predict their performance at the field scale, thereby facilitating the development of SFs. These SFs are established based on a consistent lab-to-field fatigue failure criterion (i.e. the modulus reduction of CPMs). By accounting for strain differences between laboratory and field scales, SFs are derived in the strain-fatigue life space. Application of this approach to typical Australian CPMs, namely siltstone and hornfels, yields mechanism-based SFs of 1.19 and 1.21, respectively.

Crack Evolvement of Ancient Brick Masonry Under Uniaxial Compression Fatigue Loading

ABSTRACT Cracking is an essential intuitive indicator of damage in masonry structures. Evaluating the progression of fatigue cracks in ancient brick masonry structures is vital for the preservation and safety of ancient buildings. By conducting amplitude cyclic uniaxial compression tests on ancient brick masonry specimens, using the video image correlate-3d (VIC-3D) technology to collect images of the entire process from loading to failure, the development of fatigue cracks is analyzed and concluded. A reversed S-shaped function for fatigue crack evolution was established based on the fatigue damage mechanism. The model parameters’ physical significance, value range, and their impact on the model curve were discussed. The fatigue damage evolution equation was derived from the fatigue crack evolution model. The research results show that a reversed S-shaped function for fatigue crack evolution covers various types of fatigue crack evolution laws, with strong adaptability and high accuracy. The damage evolution curve established, based on the fatigue crack evolution model, has a reversed S-shaped change rule, and was divided into three stages: the first stage (0 N f ~ 0.1 N f ) fatigue damage grows faster; the second stage (0.1 N f ~ 0.9 N f ) fatigue damage growth is stable, close to linear change; when the cycle ratio exceeds 0.9, it enters the third stage, and fatigue damage increases rapidly.

Estimate non-Gaussian road roughness from international roughness index

Gaussian model is commonly used to characterize road roughness, while field measured data is usually non-Gaussian. A new method based on the amplitude modulation and International Roughness Index is proposed in this paper to estimate non-Gaussian road roughness. A modified Gamma distribution is proposed to describe the International Roughness Index and to create the amplitude modulation signal. To ensure that the high kurtosis of the amplitude-modulated non-Gaussian profile is correctly transferred to the vehicle response, the method is further developed to fulfill the specifications for the fatigue damage spectrum by controlling the spectral content of the amplitude modulation signal. Herein, a Gaussian amplitude modulation signal with a cutoff frequency is firstly generated, and then converted to a modified Gamma distribution amplitude modulation signal based on the cumulative distribution function transform. Field data are used to verify the proposed method. The results show that a good match is obtained between the estimated and measured non-Gaussian road roughness. The estimated International Roughness Index and fatigue damage potential of vehicle response are well represented using the proposed method.

Numerical investigation on the VIV response of the flexible cylindrical structures subjected to non-linearly varying shear flow

Vortex-induced vibration (VIV) of flexible cylinders is an important phenomenon in ocean structures, which may cause fatigue damage and structural failure of offshore structures. Much literature has extensively explored VIV of flexible cylinders under various flow conditions, such as uniform and linearly varying shear flow. However, real scenarios in most cases involve non-uniform, non-linearly varying shear flow profiles. Hence, it is important to investigate the VIV response of the flexible cylindrical structures subjected to non-linearly varying shear flow profiles. This study employs a wake oscillator model (WOM) that simulates the VIV response of the flexible cylinder under the action of non-linearly varying shear flow velocity profiles. The flexible cylinder subjected to linearly varying sheared flow velocity profiles not only overpredicts but also underpredicts the VIV responses compared to the non-linearly varying sheared flow profile, which represents the real scenario. The VIV mode number for the flexible cylinder subjected to non-linear shear flow was found to have a non-linear relationship with that of linear shear flow. The VIV response of the flexible cylinder subjected to a linearly varying shear flow profile exhibits more travelling wave behaviour compared to non-linear shear flow. The location of the maximum VIV response of the structure having the same aspect ratio (L/D) and shear parameter (β), was different for linear and non-linear flow profiles across the span. The time and frequency domain responses showed a shift in the frequency band. The results obtained from the numerical simulations give better insights into the vibrational behaviour of flexible cylinders in realistic flow environments.

Experimental study and life prediction for aero-engine turbine blade considering creep-fatigue interaction effect

As an important failure form of the turbine blade, creep-fatigue interaction damage affects the safe operation and maintenance strategy of aero-engine, and has been the focus of scientific research and the academic community. Firstly, based on the Kachanov-Rabotnov-Lemaitre continuum damage mechanics theory and the nonlinear symmetry of creep damage and fatigue damage, a creep-fatigue life prediction model is constructed considering the interaction effect in this paper. Then, based on the thermal-fluid–solid multi-physical field coupling numerical simulation of the turbine blade, the equivalent method of creep-fatigue load spectrum was explored according to the equal damage criterion and linear damage rule, and the creep-fatigue interaction test of smooth samples of the blade material was conducted to analyze the creep-fatigue fracture morphology. Finally, the stress term in the creep-fatigue life prediction model of blade material is modified by the correction factor α, and the modified creep-fatigue life prediction model of the turbine blade is constructed considering the interaction effect. The results show that the modified creep-fatigue life prediction model considering the interaction effect has a high life prediction ability with an error of 3.9%. The above research has important scientific research value for the life extension design of turbine blades and the improvement of aero-engine maintenance strategy.

A frequency domain enhanced multi-view neural network approach to multiaxial fatigue life prediction for various metal materials

Fatigue damages and failure widely exist in engineering structures, particularly in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and construction, where components are often subjected to complex multiaxial loading conditions. Accurate prediction of fatigue life is critical for ensuring the safety and longevity of these structures. In this study, a novel multi-view deep learning model incorporating frequency domain analysis for fatigue life prediction is proposed. The proposed model integrates a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), a Long Short-Term Memory Network (LSTM), and FNet that combines frequency domain analysis, in a parallel structure to extract features from the loading paths of materials. These extracted features are then connected to a fully connected neural network to predict fatigue life. The model was validated using fatigue data collected from 6 different materials, encompassing 17 loading paths and 336 samples. Additionally, ablation experiments were conducted, and the extrapolation capabilities were evaluated using specifically designed test sets. The results demonstrate that the proposed model exhibits excellent predictive performance and extrapolation capabilities. We anticipate that the multi-view approach, along with its accuracy and applicability, can offer potential applications in engineering fields that require reliable, data-driven models to assess material durability under complex loading scenarios.

Loads and fatigue characteristics assessment of wind farm based on dynamic wake meandering model

As the scale of wind farms continues to expand, the impact of the wake on the power generation and load of wind turbines is becoming increasingly prominent. This study delves into the wake characteristics, power generation, load, and fatigue behavior of an ideal layout wind farm using a dynamic wake meandering model, accounting for diverse spacing configurations, inflow conditions, and yaw angles. The findings reveal that increasing the axial spacing facilitates superior wake recovery, promoting a more evenly distributed load and reducing fatigue damage throughout the wind farm. Moreover, higher inflow wind speed or turbulence intensity exacerbates fatigue damage, especially at elevated wind, where the damage accumulates exponentially. Under yaw conditions, the wake deviates, reducing its adverse impact on downstream turbines and subsequently boosting the overall power generation of the wind farm. However, this deflection simultaneously introduces intricate and detrimental effects on the fatigue load. Notably, optimal yaw achieves a 7.9 % improvement in power generation, also resulting in the most significant fatigue damage at the blade root and tower base. This study provides theoretical and technical underpinnings for the layout optimization and control strategies of wind farms or wind farm clusters.

In Situ Microscopy of Fatigue-Loaded Embedded Transverse Layers of Cross-Ply Laminates: The Role of an Inhomogeneous Fiber Distribution

Composites with continuous fiber reinforcement offer excellent fatigue properties but are tedious to characterize due to anisotropy and the interplay of fatigue properties, processing conditions, and the constituents. The global fiber volume content can affect both monotonic and fatigue strength. This dependence can increase the necessary testing effort even when processing conditions and constituents remain identical. This work presents an in situ edge observation method, enabling light microscopy during loading. As a result, digital image correlation can be employed to study local strains at cracking sites on the scale of fiber bundles. The geometric influence on fatigue damage is examined in non-crimp fabrics of glass and carbon fibers. Two epoxy resins (one modified by irradiation) are investigated to verify the geometric influence under changed polymer properties. The microscopy-based image correlation revealed that damage forms at very low global strains of only 0.2–0.3% in glass fiber-reinforced epoxy laminates. For carbon fiber-reinforced epoxy, laminate cracking was found to emanate mainly from regions containing stitching fibers. Across both reinforcements, irradiation treatment led to delayed cracks, emanating from interfaces. This detailed analysis of the damage formation is used as a basis for proposed applications of the in situ strain information.

Modal parameters and damage evaluation of steel fiber reinforced concrete under flexural cyclic loadings

Structures may be subjected to static and dynamic loads during their service life. When it comes to the dynamic spectrum, wind action, ocean waves and seismic loads are key examples and are responsible for cracking evolution and material degradation along their lifespan. Therefore, the fatigue behavior of cementitious materials has been receiving great attention due to cyclic loading that can be of natural occurrence or induced by human activity lately. The present research aims to investigate the evolution of the modal parameters of steel fiber reinforced concretes under flexural cyclic load and to evaluate how the mechanical degradation can be monitored from a non-destructive impact modal testing over the cycles. The dynamic properties of the material, including natural frequencies, vibration modes and damping ratios, were tracked to assess the level of fatigue damage using modal testing techniques. Hence, it was possible to evaluate the material mechanical degradation as a function of the dynamic parameters. From the dynamic test, it was possible to evaluate the presence of damage, which was corroborated by the observed stiffness degradation. The first flexural mode and the following second, third and sixth vibration modes were more affected along the cycles. Finally, the proposed non-destructive methodology was effective in assessing the mechanical decay of cementitious composites.

Fatigue damage analysis and mitigation for steel structures using UHM-CFRP prestressed technique

Fatigue stresses in steel bridges can lead to crack propagation, gradually decreasing the structural stability of the bridge. Conventional strengthening techniques for structures have shown limited effectiveness in preventing crack growth. The objective of this research is to enhance the fatigue life of cracked steel beams through the application of ultra-high modulus carbon fiber reinforced polymer (UHM-CFRP) plates. Two sets of tests, including quasi-static testing and fatigue testing, were conducted on both cracked and uncracked steel beams. All beams were tested under identical loading conditions, with a total of five beams examined. Control beams were used to compare fatigue life under different loading ranges. One beam was reinforced with UHM-CFRP plates, another utilized prestressed UHM-CFRP plates, and another employed UHM-CFRP plates with end clamps. The experimental study revealed a significant 8 times increase in fatigue lives for cracked steel beams repaired using the UHM-CFRP compared to the control beam. Additionally, the (10 %) prestressed UHM-CFRP plate not only doubled the fatigue life of identical beams compared to UHM-CFRP plates but also significantly reduced residual deflection during fatigue crack growth, highlighting its efficacy in fatigue resistance.