The results of a theoretical study of the propagation behavior of surface cracks in the web of railroad rails are presented. Two fracture mechanics models are presented: (1) a conventional LEFM model of an elliptical surface crack of constant aspect ratio growing through the web thickness; and (2) a generalized surface crack model based on Sih's strain energy diversity approach. The conventional model predicts that the crack will propagate only at extremely slow rates, even under conditions of tensile vertical residual stress created by roller straightening. The strain energy diversity model predicts a slow propagation principally along the web (i.e., the crack aspect ratio increases) without residual stress.
This report describes analyses performed to examine the growth rate of a particular transverse defect that forms in the rail head. The most common tra...
The effects of manufacturing method, chemical composition, heat treatment, temperature, and loading rate on the plane strain fracture toughness KIC of...
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