Weight Functions for Cracks in Finite Rectangular Plates
Resource
International Journal of Fracture 40: 43-63
Journal
International Journal of Fracture
Pages
43-63
Date Issued
1989
Date
1989
Author(s)
Tsai, Chwan-Huei
Abstract
A numerical method for the determination of weight functions relevant to cracked bodies with finite dimensions is presented. The discretized nodal weight function is determined by means of the finite element method, and the assumed form of the crack-face weight function is successfully demonstrated by using the least squares fitting procedure. The explicit weight functions of mode I are presented for plates of finite width and length with single edge, double edge and center cracks. With the use of the uncracked stress field in the crack faces and the crack-face weight function, the efficient calculation of the stress intensity factor is illustrated. The size of the Dugdale plastic zone ahead of the crack tip for a finite plate is estimated from the available weight functions. Some practical examples for various crack configurations and loading systems are given and a very satisfactory degree of accuracy is obtained from the results when compared with the findings of earlier studies. © 1989 Kluwer Academic Publishers.
Type
journal article