The Use of Retardation Models in Crack Propagation Simulation

The objective of this paper is to provide a review of retardation models for constant and variable amplitude spectrum loading in 2D constrained small scale yielding. The models considered use a numerical 2D finite element method to determine crack opening and closing stress intensity factors. The correlation of the predictions of the models with experimental data is examined. Procedures used to edit variable amplitude spectrum loading are also presented and the effects of this editing on fatigue life predictions for structural components are discussed.