Abstract
Optimal inspection strategy for random fatigue crack growth is theoretically investigated based upon cost-minimization, by the use of a diffusive crack growth model, where the randomness associated with the material inhomogeneity as well as the initial crack length is taken into analysis. Assuming that a component is immediately replaced if a crack is detected by the inspection, we formulate the expected total cost expended until the design life based upon a history-independent strategy. Next, we derive the optimal schedule through numerical calculations. Finally, sensitivity analyses on some model parameters are performed.
