A crystal plasticity-based approach for creep-fatigue life prediction and damage evaluation in a nickel-based superalloy

A numerical process based on crystal plasticity finite element (CPFE) was implemented to predict creep-fatigue crack initiation life. CPFE-based model can describe the macroscopic cyclic deformation and reveal grain-level damage mechanism. A new life prediction approach was then constructed by introducing fatigue and creep indicator parameters. Furthermore, a series of strain-controlled creep-fatigue tests in GH4169 superalloy at 650 degrees C were used to validate predicted accuracy of this model, where most of the data points lied within +/- 1.5 error band. Finally, a potential methodology for conservative creep-fatigue life evaluation was provided by flexible creep-fatigue damage summation rule in engineering applications.

Automated summary

In this study, a numerical method based on CPFE was implemented to predict creep-fatigue crack initiation life, and a new life prediction approach was constructed by introducing fatigue and creep indicator parameters. Experimental validation showed high accuracy of the predicted model, providing a potential methodology for conservative creep-fatigue life evaluation in engineering applications.