Experimental and numerical study on the fatigue behaviour of the shot-earth 772

The present research work is devoted to the mechanical, fracture and fatigue experimental characterization of the shot-earth 772, with a particular attention to its fatigue behaviour. To such an aim, an extensive experimental program has been carried out, consisting of: (i) flexural and compression tests, (ii) three-point bending fracture tests, and (iii) bending and compression cyclic tests. Moreover, a FE numerical model is employed to simulate both the above bending and compression cyclic tests, after the input data validation performed by simulating the above fracture tests. The numerical fatigue lifetimes are compared with the corresponding experimental ones for both pulsating bending and compression, highlighting the model accuracy. Finally, the contours of both the damage parameter and the reduced Young modulus are plotted showing the evolution of fatigue damage.

Automated summary

This research work focuses on the experimental characterization of the mechanical, fracture, and fatigue properties of shot-earth 772, with a special emphasis on its fatigue behavior. Experimental tests including flexural and compression tests, three-point bending fracture tests, and bending and compression cyclic tests were conducted. A finite element numerical model was used to simulate the cyclic tests and validate the input data through the fracture tests. The accuracy of the model was demonstrated by comparing the numerical fatigue lifetimes with the corresponding experimental results. Contours of the damage parameter and reduced Young modulus were plotted to illustrate the evolution of fatigue damage.