A Model Based Study of Fatigue Life Prediction for Multifarious Loadings

Loading history makes fatigue crack propagation modelling complex. This article focus on life prediction models which take into consideration the variability of fluctuating loads. In particular it emphases on the comparative studies of prediction models involving the significance of one model’s over another. The paper studies models based on multifarious loadings (constant amplitude load, variable amplitude load, overload/underload etc.). The major parameters of load interaction modelling are plasticity, crack closure, effective stress intensity, effective stress ratio and damage accumulation. For large deformation, elasto-plastic fracture mechanics based models are also included. The complexity of models, their features and focusing on their limitation and strengths are stated with various conditions and also validation of models with experimental data are reported. The paper speculates on the directions the study of crack propagation will take in future.