ISSN: 1546-962X
Published Online: 1 November 2004
Page Count: 17

A Framework for a Standardization Effort for Fatigue Crack Growth Testing Under Variable Amplitude Spectrum Loading
McKeighan, PC
Manager and Research Engineer, Southwest Research Institute, TX

McMaster, FJ
Manager and Research Engineer, Southwest Research Institute, TX

(Received 28 May 2002; accepted 21 November 2002)

Abstract

Fatigue crack growth testing under variable amplitude loading conditions is currently not standardized. Without standardization, the methods and techniques applied by different laboratories vary, and as such, lab-based bias can occur readily. The goal of this paper is to discuss in detail the experience developed and lessons learned during years of spectrum crack growth testing. Issues concerned with specimen geometry, crack geometry, precracking methodology, crack length measurement, spectrum content, load magnitude control, and interpretation of results are addressed herein. Although the ASTM Standard Test Method for Measurement of Fatigue Crack Growth Rates, E 647, provides guidance that is useful to this test, the specialized nature of spectrum testing does provide its own unique set of issues different from da/dN versus ΔK testing.

Keywords:
fatigue testing, crack growth testing, variable amplitude loading, spectrum loading, standardization

Paper ID: JAI19037
DOI: 10.1520/JAI19037
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