A FINITE-ELEMENT MODEL FOR SINGLE-SIDED CRACK PATCHINGS

A finite element model is established for analyzing the behavior of cr acked plates which are repaired with a single-sided patch. The formula tion is based on the Reissner-Mindlin plate theory with an assumed var iation of the transverse shear and normal stresses through the thickne ss of the cracked plate and patch. The generalized stress-strain relat ions relating the transverse shear stress resultants and the adhesive stresses to the displacements of the plate and patch are established b y using a variational principle. By means of the finite element model presented herein, single-sided crack patching problems can be solved w ith a reasonable estimate of the adhesive stresses and the stress inte nsity factor. Numerical examples are provided to illustrate the effect s of the patch size on the stress intensity factor in the cracked plat e and the stress distribution in the adhesive layer, and compared with results from the previous analysis.