Multiaxial fatigue of steel―testing out of phase and in blocks : validity and applicability of some criteria

Abstract The criteria used to calculate the dimensions of specimens under multiaxial fatigue are compared with some particularly unusual or discriminating test results. Tests carried out with combined loadings and in blocks of different loadings, and some tests on data in published work enable us to define the area of application and the validity of criteria. The most widely used approach, with two stresses applied to one specific facet, is shown to be inaccurate in a number of test configurations. An energy-based approach would seem to be more appropriate.