← Glossary

Fatigue Crack Flank

Fatigue crack faces are the exposed boundary surfaces of a growing fatigue crack. Their microscopic examination reveals the load history and crack propagation.

Physical-chemical mechanism of action

Fatigue cracks arise from repeated loads that push the material beyond its elastic limit. The crack faces are the exposed surfaces at the crack edges and show microscopically the propagation direction and the load history.

Metallurgical relevance & risks during welding

Wrong welding parameters or uneven cooling can enlarge fatigue cracks. Microscopic analysis of the crack faces helps in diagnosing and predicting crack failures.

Workshop practice & procedures

When welding, pay attention to uniform cooling and correct parameters. Use microscopic investigation to analyze crack faces in order to minimize the risk of crack development.

MetallurgieSchweißtechnik

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