This paper presents numerical studies on strength mis-match effects in weld
ed joints. Crack growth in a mis-matched single edge notched specimen under
pure bending, with a crack lying at the center line of the weld metal, is
simulated via a two-dimensional plane strain finite element analysis (FEA).
The fracture process is modeled using a cohesive zone model (CZM). The wor
k is focussed on the effects of yield strength mis-match as well as thickne
ss of the weld metal on fracture resistance and load-deformation for both u
nder- and overmatched specimens. Weld metal mis-match is achieved by keepin
g the same weld metal and changing the strength of the base metal.