Consistent simulation of ductile crack propagation with discrete 3D voids

In the present study ductile crack propagation in metals is simulated numerically under small-scale yielding conditions. For this purpose discrete spherical voids are modeled in the process zone around the crack tip. In contrast to many studies of this type, voids are incorporated in the whole domain. In a consistent way the voids are resolved discretely where necessary and are taken into account in a homogenized way by means of the GTN-model where possible. A shielding effect is observed caused by the void growth around the process zone. Several regular void arrangements are investigated. A parameter study with respect to the elastic-plastic parameters of the matrix material is performed indicating a strong influence of these properties. The results are compared with experimental data from literature showing that the model allows quantitative predictions of the crack growth resistance. (C) 2013 Elsevier B. V. All rights reserved.