Incorporation of Crack Propagation in the M-E Fatigue Cracking Prediction

Fatigue cracking process includes both crack initiation and crack propagation. However, crack propagation is often not directly considered in various existing mechanistic-empirical (M-E) fatigue analysis models. This paper presents a practical approach for incorporating crack propagation caused by variable traffic loading spectrum into the M-E fatigue cracking prediction model. This Paris' law based practical approach consists of stress intensity factor (SIF) and fracture properties (A and n) as the fundamental input parameters for modelling crack propagation. For practical application, 8 SIF regression equations have been developed based on extensive finite element simulations and computations. In this approach, the HMA fracture properties (A and n) are easily determined using the Overlay Tester that has unique features with respect to specimen size, specimen preparation, and short testing time. Thus far, this proposed methodological approach is exhibiting great potential as a practical means to incorporate crack propagation in M-E fatigue crack prediction analyses. 2008 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. All rights reserved.

Incorporation of Crack Propagation in the M-E Fatigue Cracking Prediction Academic Article