Specimen Geometry and Material Property Uncertainty Model for Probabilistic Fatigue Life Predictions

The present paper describes an analytical model derived from energy theorem which is coupled with the uncertainty associated with material properties and geometrical parameter to estimate fatigue life and crack growth at different level of probability and confidence level. The analysis of cracks within structure is an important application if the damage tolerance and durability of structures and components are to be predicted. As part of the engineering design process, engineers have to assess not only how well the design satisfies the performance requirements but also how durable the product will be over its life cycle. Often cracks cannot be avoided in structures; however the fatigue life of the structure depends on the location and size of these cracks. In order to predict the fatigue life for any component, crack growth study needs to be performed.