3D modelling of plane-strain fracture toughness tests using ansys wokbench

Abstract

This thesis shows the possibilities of modeling and recreating the fracture toughness test E399 using available test data. It also adds to the conclusion that for a excessive amount of plasticity the 95% secant can not be used to derive KIC as the crack has not propagated at that point. Further it has been shown that for limited amount of plasticity the J-integral can be used to calculate the linear elastic stress intensity factor. The thesis also discusses the validity of adding friction between the specimen and the pin to increase the stiffness in the simulation to match the test data and compare this approach to other methods. Finally, ways of using FE modelling to get information from invalid tests are discussed.