Computational crack propagation analysis with consideration of weld residual stresses

A software system to perform SCC crack propagation analyses for complex and realistically shaped structures consisting of dissimilar materials, such as weld metal, base metal, etc., under weld residual stresses is presented in this paper. The system consists of programs to perform automatic generation of the finite element mesh, weld residual stress mapping to the finite element model with weld residual stresses to carry out fracture analysis and finite element analysis, and evaluating the stress intensity factors and updating crack geometries for crack propagation analysis. The results of stationary crack and crack propagation analyses elucidate the influences of both the residual stress distribution and the crack geometry on the distribution of the stress intensity factors. Their influences on the crack propagation behavior are also clarified.