ON THE FATIGUE NOTCH FACTOR, K-F

This paper reviews the fatigue notch factor, K-f, and some expressions for it that are in current use. All the expressions for K-f can be cl assified into one of three types: the average stress model, the fractu re mechanics model and the stress field intensity model analysis. Thes e are compared on the basis of fatigue mechanism and experimental resu lts. It is found that the stress field intensity model is the most rea sonable, and has the greatest potential.