PFA - Virtual Crack Closure Technique (PFA_VCCT)

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Product Highlights:

·         Virtual Crack Closure Technique (VCCT) is a fracture mechanics based approach for the progressive crack growth analysis integrated into GENOA-PFA. The technique 

o        Is based on the linear spring elements

o        Is insensitive to FEM mesh size

o        Avoids the use of "singular" crack elements. As a result, extensive mesh preparation is eliminated

o        Is computationally efficient due to the use of the node-based displacements and forces, which does not affect the problem size

o        Requires a fracture path to be predetermined based on either: 1) experimental testing; 2) a preliminary GENOA/PFA analysis; or 3) the user experience. The predetermined path can be effectively prescribed using the GENOA GUI

o        Can be used for computing strain energy release rate in linear elastic materials

o        Requires fracture toughness data as input. The fracture toughness test data can be obtained from testing, material handbooks, or from GENOA-FTD.

 Applications/Benefits: