Numerical studies on crack growth in a steel tubular T-joint

• Published in: International journal of mechanical sciences Vol. 39; no. 7; pp. 859 - 871
• Main Authors: Olowokere, D.O., Nwosu, D.I.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford Elsevier Ltd 01.07.1997; Elsevier
• Subjects: Applied sciences; axial; crack propagation; Exact sciences and technology; finite element analysis; Fractures; in-plane and out-of-plane load cases; line spring element; Mechanical properties and methods of testing. Rheology. Fracture mechanics. Tribology; Metals. Metallurgy; stress intensity factor; tubular T-joints; in-plane and out-of-plane load cases; axial; crack propagation; stress intensity factor; tubular T-joints; finite element analysis; line spring element; Finite element method; Fatigue life; Stress intensity factor; Fracture mechanics; Tubular joint; Crack depth; Surface crack; Theoretical study; T joint; Crack propagation
• ISSN: 0020-7403; 1879-2162
• DOI: 10.1016/S0020-7403(96)00087-2

The results of a numerical investigation on fatigue crack growth of an offshore tubular T-joint under the action of axial, in-plane and out-of-plane bending loads are presented in this paper. Extensive stress analysis has been carried out to determine the location of the hot spot stress along the brace—chord intersection for each load case. Semi-elliptical cracks with varying crack lengths and crack depths were introduced at the hot spot location by means of line spring elements for stress intensity factor evaluation. The line springs were properly constrained to prevent the problem of crack surface penetration. The stress intensity factors obtained are then used in a crack growth law for life estimation.