Strain energy density prediction of crack initiation and direction in cracked T-beams and pipes

In this paper, the S-theory is applied to determine crack initiation and direction for cracked T-beams and circumferentially cracked pipes. It makes use of a parameter called strain energy density factor, S, which is a function of the stress intensity factors. The strain energy density theory provides a more general treatment of fracture mechanics problems by virtue of its ability in describing the multiscale feature of material damage and in dealing with mixed mode crack propagation problem. A simple method for obtaining approximate stress intensity factors is also applied. It takes into account the elastic crack tip stress singularity while using the elementary beam theory. Some basic loading conditions in beams and pipes are studied.