Multiple Crack Propagation and Coalescence in Finite Elements with Minimal Local Remeshing Using the Subregion Generalized Variational Principle
Publication: Journal of Engineering Mechanics
Volume 146, Issue 10
Abstract
Multiple crack propagation and coalescence in two-dimensional linear elastic media were modeled using the finite-element method (FEM) in conjunction with the subregion generalized variational principle. The proposed approach computes the stress intensity factor (SIF) accurately, as proved in a previous work. The approach results in regular geometric meshes. A multiple crack propagation scheme was developed in this study. The scheme follows the crack propagation by moving just the complementary energy subregion on the basis of the regular mesh. Consequently, it requires only minimal local remeshing without affecting most of the existing mesh. The scheme can handle crack coalescence easily. These advantages simplify the modeling and thus improve the efficiency. Four numerical examples, including a structure containing 10 cracks, were investigated to demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed approach.
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Data Availability Statement
Some or all data, models, or code that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request, including computer codes of all the numerical examples.
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Published In
Journal of Engineering Mechanics
Volume 146 • Issue 10 • October 2020
Copyright
© 2020 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Jan 4, 2020
Accepted: May 26, 2020
Published online: Jul 17, 2020
Published in print: Oct 1, 2020
Discussion open until: Dec 17, 2020
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