3D predictions of the local effective stress intensity factor as the fatigue crack propagation driving force

The objective of this study is to develop a numerical tool using the commercial software, Abaqus and Python, predict fatigue crack front shape while taking into account influence plasticity induced closure on propagation in three Dimensional (3D) structures. In aim, 3D model compact tension specimen made out stainless steel 304L, subjected constant loading scheme, proposed. considered be driven by stress fields developed vicinity tip thus intensity factor K. Two parallel simulations are used: an elastic simulation intends calculate local maximum other, elasto-plastic one, aims at obtaining plastic wake resulting load. results both combined order constitute effective range, which turn used, along with Paris law, thickness. advancements obtained allow construct new front. Finally, node release technique used geometry remeshing issue iterations boundary conditions that respond changes procedure repeated until stabilization values all thickness reached. compared previously issued experimental results, showing very good small scale yielding beyond large dependency zone size neighborhood