THE PREDICTION OF UNSTABLE FRACTURE BY COMPUTERISED DESIGN PROCEDURES

摘要

Many structures still have low strength/weight ratios, which results in their dead weight being many times higher than the live loads, thus avoiding problems with fatigue and fracture. Computer modelling with numerical prediction capabilities enables more economic (i.e. less massive) structural elements to be designed with greater reliability than is currently available through the use of design codes. This gives greater scope for the use of high strength materials and low safety factors, but introduces the twin problems of fracture and fatigue. This paper surveys the problems arising from design against unstable fracture