Further results in J and CTOD estimation procedures for SE(T) fracture specimens – Part I: Homogeneous materials

This study provides further developments of the evaluation procedure for J and CTOD in SE(T) fracture specimens based on plastic η-factors and load separation analysis. Non-linear finite element analyses for plane-strain and 3-D models provide the relationship between plastic work and crack driving forces which define the η-values. Further analyses based on the load separation method define alternative η-values for the analyzed specimen configurations. Overall, the present results provide improved estimation equations for J and CTOD as a function of loading condition (pin load vs. clamp ends), crack geometry and strain hardening properties.

► Large set of eta-factors applicable to pin-loaded and clamped SE(T) specimens.
► 3-D effects on the developed eta-factors are not significant.
► Very shallow crack specimens should not be used in fracture testing.
► Load separation method does not provide robust eta-factors.