Finite similitude in fracture mechanics

Scaled experimentation can potentially provide significant benefits such as reduced costs materials and time in testing but is afflicted by the phenomena of scale effects, where behaviour at be markedly different to that full size. The design scaled experiments presently predominantly founded on theory dimensional analysis, which itself grounded invariance dimensionless governing equations with scale. reality fracture mechanics however not invariant equations, deviations it evident scaled-fracture related are limited this affliction. This paper examines an advance a new approach called finite similitude. key question addressed here whether possible overcome affliction effects performing one two scales. It shown similitude (unlike analysis) able capture all forms dependency, opens up possibility selecting alternative consequently First-order investigated applied cracked compact-tension three-point bending test specimens along pressure vessel illustrate concepts. These case studies reveal veracity potential highlight possibilities hitherto would have been deemed impossible circumvention (as traditionally defined).