Reliability analysis in fracture mechanics using the first‐order reliability method and Monte Carlo simulation

ABSTRACT The development of a Windows‐based framework to undertake probabilistic fracture mechanics studies is reported. For a selective library of standard case problems, the reliability index of critical and sub‐critical (fatigue) problems with stochastic definition is evaluated. Both first‐order reliability method (FORM) as well as and Monte Carlo simulation method (MCS) techniques are used in critical crack growth, and only MCS is adopted for fatigue problems. Numerical predictions for the stress intensity factors (SIF) were validated with NASA/FLAGRO and reliability predictions were validated with both RELTRAN and VaP. With the advent of powerful and inexpensive personal computer, and the user‐friendliness of graphical user interface, programs such as the one developed will indeed make it possible for engineer to correctly account for the stochastic nature of most fracture problems they are confronted with.