Mixed mode crack growth simulation with/without overloads

In the present paper, mathematical models/procedures are developed in order to investigate the mixed mode crack growth process. The proposed procedures examine the fatigue life estimation and the crack path simulation under either constant amplitude loading or single overload. The fatigue life up to failure is calculated by employing two-parameter driving force model together with the equivalent stress intensity factor. The overload effect is theoretically analyzed by introducing the Wheeler’s retardation parameter. Further, the crack extension under Mode I/II conditions is experimentally investigated for two cracks emanating from two holes in the plate. Then, for the same mixed mode situation with two cracks, the crack growth paths are modeled by using the maximum principal stress criterion and the finite element method. The authors employ analytical and numerical approaches for the stress intensity factor calculations. The numerical investigation is performed by applying quarter-point (Q-P) singular finite elements. The efficiency of proposed procedures is verified through available crack growth data. The different mixed mode calculations are in a good correlation with crack growth observations.