INTERACTIVE EFFECT OF MULTIPLE CRACK-GROWTH ON FATIGUE

Interaction of multiple cracks are found in mud when drying and crazin g, thin film varnishes or coatings of aeroengine turbine blades. A two -dimensional multiple crack interaction model is developed to simulate the growth of interacting parallel surface cracks. Density and the in itial distribution of the microcracks are accounted for in analyzing t he growth of a crack to a pre-determined length. Analytical prediction s are discussed with reference to experimental observations of fatigue cracks on coated turbine blades. Introduction of a large density of s imilar cracks can enhance the fatigue life of structural components.