Fraunhofer Institute for Microstructure of Materials and Systems IMWSFracture mechanics methods in component testing refer to techniques for evaluating the fracture strength and crack resistance of components. These methods are used to analyze the behavior of a component under critical loads and to predict the risk of fractures or crack propagation.
The common fracture mechanics methods that can be investigated at Fraunhofer IMWS include:
Crack initiation
This method deals with determining the stress or load at which cracks initiate in a component. Various test methods such as tensile tests or notch impact tests are used to analyze crack formation.
Crack propagation
This method deals with analyzing the behavior of cracks in a component under load. It includes the investigation of crack propagation speed, crack length, and crack shape. Test methods such as cyclic loading tests or stress corrosion cracking tests are used for this purpose.
Fracture toughness
The fracture toughness of a component provides information about its ability to resist crack propagation. Test methods such as the notched bar impact test or the J-integral method are used to determine the fracture toughness of the material. These fracture mechanics methods are used to understand the behavior of components under critical conditions and to ensure the safety and reliability of components.