Extraction of Fracture Mechanics Parameters From Fem Analysis: Algorithms and Procedures

Abstract

The paper describes new algorithms and procedures proposed for determining fracture mechanicsparameters from finite element analysis using the over deterministic method. The multi-parameter cracktip stress field description is used. The algorithms and procedures based on multi-parameter stress fieldrepresentations in series form are shown to be a powerful tool for reliable and accurate parameterdetermination. The technique is aimed at the determination of coefficients of the Williams series expansionfrom finite element analysis and is based on the over deterministic approach. The methodology is illustratedand applied to several cases of cracked specimens. Examples are presented for crack-tip fields recorded usingdigital photoelasticity. The results of finite element analysis are compared with the digital photoelasticityexperiments. The results are in good agreement. The principal stresses obtained from finite element methodare in good agreement with the isochromatic fringe patterns obtained by the photoelasticity method.Explanation has been made for giving guidance to a user on how best to approach implementation of themethod from a practical standpoint.