J-R Curves From Through-Wall Cracked Elbow Subjected to In-Plane Bending Moment

Abstract

The evaluation of J-integral from experimental data requires the ηpl and γ functions. However, these functions are available for limited geometry in the literature. In this paper, limit-load-based general expressions of ηpl and γ functions have been derived. These general expressions are then utilized to derive the ηpl and γ functions for through-wall circumferentially/axially cracked elbows under in-plane bending moment which are not available in the literature. The functions are then applied to generate J-R curves from fracture experiments of elbows. Finite element analyses of the tested elbows are also described in the paper.