Lifetime Prediction of Components Including Initiation Phase

Abstract

The lifetime distribution of a component subjected to fatigue loading is calculated using a micromechanics model for crack initiation and a fracture mechanics model for crack growth. These models are implemented in a computer code which uses the local stress field obtained in a finite-element analysis as input data. Elemental failure probabilities are defined which allow us to identify critical regions and are independent of mesh refinement. An example is given to illustrate the capabilities of the code. Special emphasis is put on the effect of the initiation phase on the lifetime distribution.