Application of two methods for notch fatigue life prediction

摘要

The aim of this paper is the application of two methods for notch fatigue life assessment, methods which are based on finite element analysis: the theory of critical distances and the volumetric method. Firstly, un-notched and notched specimens (for three different geometries) were tested in tension under constant-amplitude loading. The use of theory of critical distances (TCD) to predict the notch fatigue life involves the determination of the material characteristic length L based on experimental results obtained for the un-notched and one type of notched specimens. For the others notched geometries, based on linear-elastic finite element analysis, the fatigue strength is predicted using the TCD. In order to apply the volumetric method, elastic-plastic stress field around notches are considered and notch strength reduction factor are determined. Finally, the predictions of the two methods were compared with experimental fatigue data for notched specimens.