ABSTRACT
The finite-width correction (FWC) factor can be discussed in the following aspects: the stress or strain concentration such as the maximum tangential stress at the opening edge; the stress intensity factor of a plate with a crack; and the interpolation of finite-plate testing data (such as strength) to infinite-plate result; this concept has been utilized for the strength analysis of isotropic and anisotropic plates. In some cases, the isotropic FWC factors can be applied for anisotropic plates, for instance, the stress intensity of an infinite-length composite laminate with a crack. However the application of an anisotropic FWC factor to transform the maximum stress concentration and the notched strength data between a finite- and an infinite-width plate with an opening other than a crack has seldom been discussed in the literature. This chapter discusses a study, wherein a compact form solution is derived for the FWC factors of anisotropic and orthotropic plates containing a central elliptical opening.
