Author(s)

D. Delia-Ventura & R.N.L. Smith

Abstract

Three dimensional surface cracks D. Delia-Ventura, R.N.L. Smith Applied Mathematics and Operational Research Group, Cranfield University, RMCS Shrivenham, Swindon, ABSTRACT The boundary element method is used to obtain stress intensity factors for the 3D centre crack under plane strain conditions and to show that the r 2 variation of the singular fields may be accurately predicted. By subtracting the singular plane strain fields from the fully 3D crack problem, the 3D surface fields are iso- lated, clearly demonstrating the effects of changes in Poissons ratio and specimen thickness. INTRODUCTION For two-dimensional linear elastic fracture problems, we have shown that a two step superposition method is highly effective in calculating the stress inten- sity factor for classical mode /problems, Smith and Delia-Ventura [1]. The flexibility of the method is highlighted in also dealing with mixed-mode problems, Smith and Delia-Ventura [2]. Although this approach is equivalent to the well-

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