Abstract
The influence of microstructure on non-propagating behavior of fatigue crack below the fatigue limit was investigated using low carbon steels with three different microstructures simulated heat affected zone of welds. Notched round bar specimens with different stress concentration factors were fatigued under axial loading at the stress ratios R=-1 (tension-compression). Fractographic and metallographic observations of non-propagating cracks at the stress level below fatigue limit were examined, and correlation between non-propagating crack and microstructures was investigated. Non-propagating cracks could be classified as Stage I or Stage II, depending on the microstructure and notch root radius. In the case of dull-notched specimens, where the notch factor in fatigue is proportional to stress concentration factor, the non-propagating crack is Stage I type regardless the microstructure, although Stage II type cracks were observed in sharp notched specimens for particular materials. The criteria for both Stage I and Stage II type non-propagating crack were discussed on the basis of the point stress model and fracture mechanics.
