Ghent University, Department of Mechanical construction and production
Abstract
This paper summarises the research carried out to develop Finite Element (FE)
modelling and predictive techniques for damage, fracture, fatigue and fretting fatigue
problems. A damage model is developed based on Continuum Damage Mechanics
and integrated within FE code. It is then used to predict the number of cycles to crack
initiation in adhesively bonded joints. Furthermore, crack propagation algorithm is
programmed within FE code using the principles of Fracture Mechanics and Paris
law. The effect of mode mixity on crack propagation is taken into account using a
Double Cantilever Beam (DCB) test specimen. Moreover, FE model of fretting fatigue
aluminium test specimen is carried out in order to study the stress distribution and
predict the crack propagation fatigue lifetime. Fretting fatigue problems involve two
types of analyses; namely contact mechanics analysis and damage/fracture
mechanics analysis. Both analyses are performed in FE code and the stress
distribution along the contact surface between the two bodies is obtained and
analysed. Furthermore, crack propagation analysis under fretting fatigue condition is
presented. In most cases, the numerical results are compared to experimental ones
