Fatigue Life Estimation for Different Geometrical Configuration of Load-Carrying Cruciform Joint using ABAQUS and Fe-Safe

Abstract

This research paper focuses on the fatigue analysis of load-carrying cruciform joints made up of thick plates, which are crucial components in ship structures. The study investigates the fatigue life of fillet welded cruciform joints using both 2D and 3D geometries. Various loading conditions and boundary conditions are considered, and an elastic-plastic finite element analysis is conducted using ABAQUS 2021. The number of cycles to failure is estimated using Fe-Safe and the strain-based Brown Miller Morrow model. The results, presented through contour plots, Log Life repeats, and Load Range vs. Number of Cycles graphs, reveal the fatigue behavior and failure locations. Additionally, the methodology is validated against experimental data from literature, demonstrating its applicability. The findings provide insights into the fatigue characteristics of load-carrying cruciform joints in thick plates, contributing to enhanced design and reliability in the shipbuilding industry.

Keywords

• Load-carrying Cruciform joint
• Fatigue analysis
• Elastic-Plastic FEA
• ABAQUS
• Fe-Safe
• 2D and 3D Cruciform geometries