Effects of Weld Strength Mismatch on Estimation Procedures for J Fracture Parameter Using Clamped SE(T) Specimens

This work presents an exploratory development of J estimation procedures for deep and shallow cracked tension SE(T) specimens based upon plastic eta factors which incorporate the effects of weld strength mismatch. The considered technique includes estimation of J from plastic work. The primary objective is to derive estimation procedures which are applicable to determine J fracture parameters for a wide range of a/W-ratios, material flow properties and different levels of weld strength mismatch using clamped SE(T) specimens of varying geometries. Very detailed non-linear finite element analyses for plane-strain models provide the evolution of load with increased load-line displacement and crack mouth opening displacement, which are needed to determine the estimation procedures. Laboratory testing of a welded structural steel using SE(T) specimens provide the data needed to evaluate J evolution for the welded joints based upon the proposed methodology. The crack driving force evolution is compared against the results obtained using plastic eta factors for homogeneous specimens and demonstrates the importance of considering mismatch effects on crack-tip stress fields and fracture parameters. The present analyses, when taken together with previous studies, extend the body of results which serve to determine J integral using tension SE(T) specimens with varying geometries and mismatch levels.