Stress intensity factor for semi-infinite crack formed by moving thermal source

In many technological processes connected with cutting or welding of thin p lates there is local thermal heating or cooling of the tip of the cut. Unde r certain conditions the cut may be considered as a semi-infinite crack in a plate and the thermal source as a point heat source. For cutting processe s the cue is behind the moving thermal source and for welding the cut is in front of the moving thermal source. For most processes the value of the th ermal source is positive (e.g. laser, electron beam cutting and others). Tn this report the stress intensity factor due to the thermal source in the t ip of the cut is investigated. Analytical solutions for the stress intensit y factors are obtained.