Crack Face Friction
Crack face rubbing is the friction between crack faces during the unloading phase of a load cycle. It can reduce the driving force for crack growth via closure effects.
Physical-Chemical Mechanism of Action
Crack flank friction occurs when the crack faces move and rub against each other during unloading. This leads to a form of energy loss called friction work.
Metallurgical Relevance & Risks in Welding
High crack flank friction can reduce the effective driving crack force. This increases the likelihood of crack propagation and can lead to earlier crack initiation in the material.
Workshop Practice & Action Instructions
To minimize crack flank friction, it is important to ensure a clean weld. This includes proper surface preparation and the use of suitable welding materials. For high-load applications, choosing the right stress state and controlling cooling steps can also be important.