ABSTRACT
Fracture mechanics provides the analytical framework for developing a comprehensive methodology for predicting the potential for fracture in components. In this methodology, the magnitude and distribution of applied stresses; the resistance to fracture and crack growth of the component material; and the size, location, and geometry of defects in the component can all be simultaneously considered in predicting the crack growth and fracture behavior. This approach is also capable of determining the influence of service environment. In the previous chapters of this book, we have described the physical and mathematical basis of these concepts which form the analytical framework. This chapter illustrates the generalized methodology for performing fracture mechanics analysis of engineering components through realistic examples.
