Effect of specimen crack lengths on stress intensity factor for Al6061-TiC composites using experimental and 3D numerical methods

Abstract

Purpose-The purpose of this paper is to present the determination of critical stress intensity factor (KC) both by experimental method and three-dimensional (3D) finite element simulations. Design/methodology/approach-CT specimens of different compositions of Al6061-TiC composites (3wt%, 5wt% and 7wt% TiC) with variable crack length to width (a/W0.3-0.6) ratios are machined from as-cast composite block. After fatigue pre-cracking the specimens to a required crack length, experimental load vs crack mouth opening displacement data are plotted to calculate the KC value. Elastic 3D finite element simulations have been conducted for CT specimens of various compositions and a/W ratios to compute KC. The experimental results indicate that the magnitude of KC depends on a/W ratios, and significantly decreases with increase in a/W ratios of the specimen. Findings-From 3D finite element simulation, the KC results at the centre of CT specimens for various Al6061-TiC composites and a/W ratios show satisfactory agreement with experimental results compared to the surface. Originality/value-The research work contained in this manuscript was conducted during 2015-2016. It is original work except where due reference is made. The authors confirm that the research in their work is original, and that all the data given in the article are real and authentic. If necessary, the paper can be recalled, and errors corrected. © Emerald Publishing Limited.