Nonlinear Simulation of an Embedded Crack in the Presence of Holes and Inclusions by XFEM

In this work, nonlinear analysis of an embedded cracked plate is performed by XFEM in presence of multiple discontinuities under plane stress condition. Von-Mises yield criterion is used to model the elasto-plastic behavior of the plate assuming isotropic strain hardening. The stress-strain response of the plate is modeled using Ramberg-Osgood material model. XFEM is used as a numerical tool to simulate the plate containing a major centre crack, holes and inclusions. A domain based J-integral approach is used to evaluate the stress intensity factors. The generalized Paris law is used to estimate the fatigue life of the plate under mode-I cyclic loading condition. The effect of inclusions and holes on the fatigue life of the component for linear and nonlinear material behavior is discussed in detail.