A SFBEM–FEM coupling method for solving crack problems based on Erdogan fundamental solutions

The boundary element method (BEM) has proven to be an efficient approach for crack analysis in fracture mechanics, while its versatility application problems of complex structures with irregular boundaries deserves further attention. In this study, improve the applicability analysis, a cracked superelement is first established BEM model near-crack region, and problem then solved within frame finite (FEM). stiffness matrix formulated using spline fictitious (SFBEM) based on Erdogan fundamental solutions infinite plane single crack. proposed incorporated into mesh simulate behaviour zone, governing equation finally typical procedure FEM. After obtaining nodal displacements superelement, stress intensity factors (SIFs) tips can obtained by backward SFBEM. accuracy efficiency SFBEM–FEM coupling are demonstrated two numerical examples involving rectangular plate central square 100 horizontal cracks. present applied SIFs multiple cracks exposed steel anchorage box hanger suspension bridge, which indicates merging superelements commercial FEM software computationally