Mismatch limit loads and approximate J estimates for tensile plates with constant-depth surface cracks in the center of welds

The present work provides mismatch limit loads and approximate J estimates for tensile plates with constant-depth, part-through surface cracks in the center of the weld metal. Based on systematic threedimensional FE limit analyses, effects of strength mismatch related variables on limit loads are firstly quantified by the strength mismatch ratio and one geometry-related parameter. Mismatch limit loads for part-through surface cracks are then correlated to those for two-dimensional, through-wall crack problems. Based on the proposed limit load solutions, the applicability of the reference stress based J estimates is also investigated. When the reference stress is defined by the mismatch limit load, predicted J values agree overall well with FE results.