VM-WB-MECH-096

VM-WB-MECH-096
2-D Fracture Problem Under Thermal Loading

Overview

Reference:	Wilson, W. K., et al. (1979). The use of the J-Integral in thermal stress crack problems. International Journal of Fracture, 377-387.
Solver(s):	Ansys Mechanical
Analysis Type(s):	Static Structural
Element Type(s):	2-D Structural Elements

Test Case

An edge-cracked strip is modeled with its ends constrained. The strip is subject to a linear temperature gradient through its thickness, starting at zero at the mid-thickness and reaching final value T0 at the right edge. Stress intensity factor for the cracked strip is calculated and compared against the reference value.

Figure 130: Problem Schematic

Material Properties	Geometric Properties	Loading
E = 1 x 10⁵ Pa Poisson's ratio = 0.3 Thermal expansion, = 1 x 10^-4/C°	Crack length = 1 mm L = 4 mm W = 2 mm	T0 = 10°C

Material Properties

Geometric Properties

E = 1 x 10⁵ Pa

Poisson's ratio = 0.3

Thermal expansion, = 1 x 10^-4/C°

Crack length = 1 mm

L = 4 mm

W = 2 mm

T0 = 10°C

Analysis Assumptions and Modeling Notes

The problem is solved using 2-D structural elements with plain strain element behavior.

Results Comparison

Result	Target	Mechanical	Error (%)
Stress intensity, KI	126.604	125.05	-1.23