A variational technique for boundary element analysis of 3D fracture mechanics weight functions: static

The dual boundary element method coupled with the weight function technique is developed for the analysis of three-dimensional elastostatic fracture mechanics mixed-mode problems. The weight functions used to calculate the stress intensity factors are de ned by the derivatives of traction and displacement for a reference problem. A knowledge of the weight functions allows the stress intensity factors for any loading on the boundary to be calculated by means of a simple boundary integration without singularities. Values of mixed- mode stress intensity factors are presented for an edge crack in a rectangular bar and a slant circular crack embedded in a cylindrical bar, for both uniform tensile and pure bending loads applied to the ends of the bars.