SEDL / STP / STP1207-EB / STP13728S

Weight Functions for Eccentric Cracks

Chen, X
Research associateprofessor, Institute for Systems ResearchUniversity of Maryland, Loma LindaCollege Park, CAMD

Albrecht, P
Research associateprofessor, Institute for Systems ResearchUniversity of Maryland, Loma LindaCollege Park, CAMD

Pages: 34    Published: Jan 1994

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Abstract

The authors have developed weight functions for an eccentric crack in a finite-width plate based on an assumed crack-opening displacement (COD) expression and Isida's stress intensity factor solution for a cracked finite-width plate under tension.

The unknown coefficient in the assumed COD expression was obtained from the energy balance condition. The accuracy of the weight functions was checked with self-consistency and symmetry conditions. Comparisons with results for special cases with known solutions further validated the accuracy of the weight functions. After verifying the accuracy, the application of the weight function method (WFM) was illustrated for three basic loading conditions as well as residual welding stresses and thermal shock stresses.

The WFM developed in this study is an important step toward solving more complex engineering crack problems such as two-tip eccentric cracks in the web or flange of steel bridge girders and a three-tip crack extending across flange and into the web.