PROBLEMS OF FATIGUE CRACK GROWTH MEASUREMENT UNDER RANDOM LOAD

Abstract

Constant amplitude fatigue tests have been used in practical engineering for many years; they are well developed and satisfactory. However, under random loading a number of factors may have an unexpected and often significant effect on the crack growth response. Hence these factors require a detailed consideration. This paper deals with some basic aspects of the random loading process and points out certain changes occurring within a wide range of stress intensities, such as are observed during fatigue of large structures, for example, pressure vessels, ships, oil platforms and bridges.