The Effect of Stiffness on Stress Intensity Factor for a Crack in Annular Disc Under Constant Central Torque

The finite element method has been used to predict the stress intensity factors for cracked annular discs under constant central torque. Linear elastic fracture mechanics finite element analyses have been performed and the results are demonstrated in the form of crack configuration factors. To this end, the extensive ranges of crack configuration factors have been employed while considering the effect of disc stiffness. Then, the finite element results are applied to develop equivalent prediction equations using a statistical multiple nonlinear regression model. The accuracy of this model is measured using a multiple coefficient of determination, R ² , where 0 ≤ R ² ≤ 1. This coefficient is found to be greater than or equal to 0.98 for all cases considered in this study, demonstrating the quality of the model fit to the data.