(Course # CDS 11)
By Alten F. Grandt

This module provides an introduction to the fatigue structural failure mode. Fatigue is caused by cyclic loading and results in the formation of cracks that can then propagate to fracture. It is a common failure mode for many types of structures and materials, and has been estimated to be the cause of over half of all mechanical failures. This module begins with a general description of the fatigue process and its characteristics. The stress-life and strain-life approaches for determining the number of cycles required to form cracks in smooth and notched components are then presented. The next section deals with linear elastic fracture mechanics techniques to predict fatigue crack growth and subsequent fracture. The final section overviews various fatigue design criteria and approaches for providing structural resistance to fatigue for long service lives.