Brittle Structural Failures

Author:  Almen, J.O.
Source:  Product Engineering, April, 1953
Doc ID:  1953000
Year of Publication:  1953
Abstract:  
Service experiences and results of pertinent experiments to support the theory that welded structures fabricated from ductile steel fail by brittle fracture. Data show that susceptibility to the several common causes of brittle fractures in ductile metal such as fatigue, stress corrosion cracking, and biaxial tension can be reduced by the development and retention of residual compressive stress in vulnerable areas. Simple and inexpensive methods for reducing harmful residual stresses. Since welded ships are fabricated from ductile steel and the fracture origins of failed ship plates are brittle in character, ship failures are suspected of developing from several causes.