Line-spring finite element for fully plastic crack growth. I: Formulation and one-dimensional results; II: Surface-cracked plates and pipes (Q1282690)

We develop a line-spring finite element model to resolve fully plastic, quasi-steady, through-thickness crack growth in plane strain single-edge-cracked (SEC) specimens and surface-cracked plate/shell structures. Detailed description of the model, as incorporated into the ABAQUS finite element code in the form of a user-defined element, is given in part I. Parametric studies in plane strain SEC specimens are carried out to examine the effects of loading type, ductility and strain hardening on plane strain crack extension behavior, and the effects of elastic surroundings on structural stability. Applications of the line-spring model to problems of surface-cracked plate and pipe are presented in part II.