Fatigue Fracture
Fatigue fracture is a slow crack formation under repeated loading, leading to gradual material failure. It results from microscopic cracks that propagate step by step.
Physicochemical Mechanism of Action
Fatigue fracture occurs when a material is subjected to repeated loads. Microscopic cracks in the material structure are spread further by the load and gradually grow. This process is slow and continuous.
Metallurgical Relevance & Welding Risks
Fatigue fracture can occur at welded joints when they are exposed to alternating loads. It leads to a gradual loss of mechanical properties and raises the risk of cracks and failure. This is especially critical in dynamic applications or high-temperature loading.
Workshop Practice & Instructions
To avoid fatigue fracture, welded joints under alternating loads should be stabilized. This can be done through careful selection of material and processing technique. At high temperatures it is important that the weld is stable enough to prevent microscopic cracks. Recommended measures are careful monitoring of the loads and, if needed, the use of stabilization methods.