The SMF2D Code for Proper Simulation of Crack Propagation

Abstract

An improved two-dimensional finite-difference code for simulating crack initiation, fast crack propagation, and arrest is presented. Compared with the previously available numerical codes, the present one simulates crack processes much more accurately, yielding results which have been found to be in excellent agreement with analytical and experimental findings. The code is applied to the single edge notch and double cantilever beam specimens and preliminary numerical results are discussed.

An improved dynamic crack propagation simulation in the SEN specimen by the SMF2D code

“…The crack length does not have to be a multiple integer of the mesh size h as it had to in the previous codes (e.g. in the present solution ao[W = 0.3 is a crack of 22.5h length, see [12]). …”

“…The SMF2D code, previously described in [11][12][13], is based upon the simultaneous employment of both a stationary and a moving coordinate system as described in Fig. 1.…”

“…Equations (2) together with the appropriate boundary conditions for the particular problem being solved (e.g. [12]) completely define the problem in the stationary domain.…”

“…In order to achieve accurate results a mesh size of h = H/75 in both directions was chosen (see e.g. [12,14]). Hence half the specimen is described by 5929 mesh points.…”

“…Dulaney and Brace [6], Carlsson et al [7], Aberson et al [8], Brickstad et al [9] and Dahlberg et al [10]. The experimental findings provide us with accurate measured crack velocity time histories, thus enabling a direct implementation of the previously developed improved two dimensional finite difference code (the SMF2D code [11][12][13]) to investigate crack initiation and dynamic crack propagation in the SEN specimen.…”