This work presents a numerical investigation of crack-tip constraint for SE(T) specimens and axially surface cracked pipes using plane-strain, nonlinear computations. The primary objective is to gain some understanding of the potential applicability of constraint designed fracture specimens in defect assessments of pressurized pipelines and cylindrical vessels. The present study builds upon the J-Q approach using plane-strain solutions to characterize effects of constraint on cleavage fracture behavior for fracture specimens and cracked pipes. Under increased loading, each cracked configuration follows a characteristic J-Q trajectory which enables comparison of the corresponding crack-tip driving force. The results provide a strong support to use constraint-designed SE(T) specimens in fracture assessments of pressurized pipes and cylindrical vessels.
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