Extended Finite Element Simulation of Axial Semi Elliptical Surface Crack in Bi-Material Pipe

Fracture analysis of crack is very essential to ensure the reliability and avoid the catastrophic failure of engineering components and structures since most of the failures start from the crack which leads to loss of life and economy. In the present study, extended finite element method (XFEM) is used to simulate the axial surface crack in bi-material pipe. Bi-material consists of two dissimilar materials with distinct properties. In this study, bi-material pipe consists of inner pipe made of steel alloy and outer pipe made of ceramic. An axial semi elliptical part through crack at different location is used for 3D linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) analysis of bi-material pipe. Bi-material pipe is subjected to internal pressure and stress intensity factor (SIF) is computed at different location of crack front of semi elliptical surface crack using virtual domain extension approach.