Modelling of fretting fatigue in a fracture-mechanics framework

The use of fracture mechanics as an alternative to (Cauchy) stress-based fatigue criteria is illustrated in this paper, using the “crack analogue” concept to deal with crack initiation in a fracture mechanics framework. A very simple model, based entirely on independently derived parameters, is shown to be able to capture the qualitative effects of the normal and tangential loads of fretting-fatigue performance. The accuracy of the total life predictions is also satisfactory. Examples of how to account for residual stresses and size effect with such a model are discussed.