Abstract

This research used the stress intensity factor with rate of crack growth per cycle of loading to model and simulates the crack growth in Martensitic steel in air environment. The basic parameters used were da/dN and ΔK, log (da/dN) was analyzed against log (ΔK) and a regression analysis using data from log (da/dN) vs log (ΔK) was carried out and the outcome employed to develop a model and simulation which gave rise to interactive software that can be used to predict the behavior of a structural member under conditions of certain loading. Additionally, it can be employed to have quick access to data and design considerations, when input data are supplied. This became useful in monitoring the point at which crack can initiate and the rate at which it would grow in a particular structural member of interest. The software has been tested with theoretical and experimental data.