Dynamic Finite Element Analyses of Two Compact Specimens

A dynamic finite element code was used to compute the dynamic stress intensity factors and crack arrest stress intensity factors which are related to the crack run-arrest responses in longitudinal and transverse wedge-loaded compact specimens machined from A533B and 1018 steels, respectively. Measured crack velocities were used to prescribe crack motions in the longitudinal and transverse wedge-loaded compact specimens under fixed wedge displacements. The numerical analyses show that approximately 45 percent additional energy is input during the crack propagation phase in the former compact specimen while the rigid loading system in the latter results in essentially quasi-static crack extension.