Although handbook type SIF solutions do exist for single cracks the number available for multiple cracks is exceedingly small. The mechanics of multiple cracks is very complex due to the singularities at crack fronts and the complex stress distribution caused by the interaction of many cracks. If you have components with multiple cracks BEASY can provide realistic analysis of crack interaction. BEASY is not limited by the need to create an equivalent flaw for the purposes of analysis; it can also provide accurate analysis of cracks for real engineering cases. This is often an important consideration since the interaction between cracks could produce either an enhancement or shielding effect on the stress intensity factor depending on the relative positions and orientations of the cracks.
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