COMPARISON OF FATIGUE LIFE PREDICTIONS IN WELDED-JOINTS USING 2D AND 3D K-SOLUTIONS

The paper presents the results of fatigue life predictions in non-load ed carrying tee and cruciform joints and also longitudinal seams of tu bes, obtained with 2D and 3D stress intensity factor solutions. The 2D computational method uses the standard Bueckner weight function solut ion to obtain the 2D values of the stress magnifying factor M(K). In t he 3D approach a modified 3D weight function solution was used in conj unction with the Raju and Newman base stress intensity formulation. Co mparison of results is shown between the 2D and 3D fatigue life predic tions and experimental results of fatigue strength obtained by the aut hors. Results are also given showing the influence of crack aspect rat io, thickness and the ratio of tube radius to tube thickness.