Shuji Aihara

Computer Simulation of Fast Crack Propagation and Arrest in Steel Plate with Temperature Gradient Based on Local Fracture Stress Criterion

A fracture mechanics model for fast crack propagation and arrest is proposed based on the local fracture stress criterion. Dynamic fracture toughness (K{sub D}) for a propagating crack is calculated as a function of crack velocity and temperature. The model is extended to incorporate the effect of unbroken ligament (UL) formed near the plate surfaces and crack-front-tunneling. The model simulates acceleration, deceleration and arrest of a crack in a ESSO or a double-tension test plate with temperature-gradient. Calculated arrested crack lengths compare well with experimental results. It is shown that the conventional crack arrest toughness calculated from applied stress and arrested crack length depends on temperature-gradient and the toughness is not a unique material property.