A General Statistical Model for Random Fatigue

Abstract

A general statistical model for fatigue under stationary random gaussian stress is presented. This phenomenological model requires only a limited amount of data from fatigue tests in which specimens are subjected to stationary narrow band, gaussian stresses. A theoretical extension is made to predict fatigue under wide band stresses and arbitrary mean values. Statistical variability in material strength is included in the model. Moreover, the model has the property of adaptability in that it is easily modified to reflect new data as it becomes available. Furthermore, it is easily incorporated into probabilistic design procedures where reliability requirements are specified.