On the initiation and propagation of fatigue cracks in WC-Co
Date
1998
Authors
Erling, Ghita
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Abstract
This research examines fatigue in WC-Co, both under compressive and tensile loading conditions.
A new macro-mechanism for compression fatigue crack propagation is put forward, which
contradicts existing data on compression fatigue cracks as being self-limiting. Evidence of this
macro-mechanism is presented in the form of final crack length versus number of cycles data, and
micrographs of the compression fatigue cracks. A finite element study of the stress distribution
in the WC-Co microstructure during compression fatigue loading has been developed. This model
verifies possible methods of compression fatigue crack initiation. Examination of tensile fatigue
and fast: fracture surfaces is used to show that fatigue is a separate mechanism to fast fracture in
WC-Co. Characteristic features of the fatigue fracture surface are presented. A possible fatigue
crack propagation mechanism is also presented. Finally, fatigue crack growth rate data in the form
of the Paris equation is presented for WC-Co grades T6 and G6.
Description
A dissertation submitted to the Faculty of Engineering, University of the Witwatersrand, in
fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Engineering,
Johannesburg, 1998
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Citation
Erling, Ghita (1998) On the initiation and propagation of fatigue cracks in WC-Co, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg,<http://hdl.handle.net/10539/22772>