Dynamic Crack Propagation in Precracked Cylindrical Vessels Subjected to Shock Loading

Abstract

Previous work has shown that a speed-independent dynamic fracture toughness property can be used in an elastodynamic analysis to describe crack initiation and unstable propagation under impact loading. In this paper, a further step is taken by extending the analysis from simple laboratory test specimens to treat more realistic crack-structure geometries. A circular cylinder with an initial part-through wall crack subjected to an impulsive loading on its inner surface is considered. The crack is in a radial-axial plane and has its length in the axial direction long enough that a state of plane strain exists at the center of the crack. Crack growth initiation and propagation through the wall is then calculated. It is found that, once initiated, crack propagation will continue until the crack penetrates the wall. Crack arrest within the wall does not appear to be possible under the conditions considered in this paper.