Numerical Modelling of Crack Growth Path in Linear Elastic Materials

This work’s focus goal is to carry-out a computational modeling of the path taken by cracks in linear elastic materials under mixed-mode loadings and investigate the impact of a hole’s presence on the fatigue life and propagation of fatigue cracks in a MCTS under conditions of steady magnitude loading. The mixed-mode fatigue life of compact tension specimens with varying configurations has been assessed using the Paris law model in accordance with inference of linear elastic fracture mechanics. The methodology entails a precise assessment of stress intensity factors, the trajectory of fracture propagation, and a progressive crack extension study and fatigue life assessment. The ANSYS is applied for precise prophecy of the fracture propagation routes and the corresponding fatigue life under steady magnitude loading conditions. The book chapter focuses on the effects on the various configurations of holes in the metal specimens and predict the fatigue crack extension in the specimens.