Fatigue finite element analysis on the effect of welding joint type on fatigue life and crack location of a tubular member

The results of a fatigue finite element analysis (FEA) based on the continuum damage mechanics of welding tubular members are presented. The effects of welding joint type on fatigue life and crack location were investigated. The initial mechanical state of a welded tubular member was simulated to identify initial welding imperfections such as welding residual stress and welding deformation using three-dimensional (3D) thermal elasto-plastic...