Application of singular quadratic distorted isoparametric elements in linear fracture mechanics

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Abstract
The understanding of the performance of the quarter‐point and transition elements is of considerable importance as these singular elements are widely used in linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) analyses. However, a number of issues remain unresolved although numerous investigations into their performance have been conducted. In particular is the question of optimum quarter‐point element and transition element size. This study examines several aspects in relation to the size effect by performing a large number of numerical analyses on several standard problems. Interpretation of the numerical results was aided by the use of two concepts, the ‘zones of dominance’ and ‘zones of representation’. This study proposes a means of explaining the errors in stress intensity factor computation through the interaction between both types of zones. Consequently, a number of new and significant observations were made regarding the singular elements' performance. This study concludes with some recommendations for the application of these elements.

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