Serving the Numerical Simulation community since 1989 
Crack Path Analysis Technical Brief
Abstract: The objective of this work revolves around a need for an accurate numerical simulation method that computes the stress intensity factors (SIF) along a predicted crack propagation path for planar two dimensional bodies. In response to this need, ESRD has developed an automated procedure in StressCheck®, a p-version finite element analysis (FEA) tool, that computes through-crack stress intensity factors for mode I and mode II along a predicted crack propagation path. This functionality is applicable to planar analysis (2D plate with in-plane loading). The trajectory of the crack is determined by a relationship between mode I and mode II SIF’s (K1 and K2) and is shown to be very accurate.
