Simulation of crack propagation under mixed-mode loading

Abstract

Engineering components frequently contain cracks, either as an unavoidable consequence of their manufacturing (for example, pores in sintering processes or machining flaws) or due to processes occurring in service (cyclic loads, corrosive attacks, wear, etc.). Since it is not possible to completely avoid the formation of cracks, engineering safety requires to ensure that cracks do not lead to failure of a structure.