A multi-scale strategy to predict fretting-fatigue endurance of overhead conductors

Overhead conductors enduring aeolian vibrations are subjected to fretting fatigue damage. To predict the fretting fatigue cracking risk along the conductor-clamp assembly involving a multitude of crossed-strands contacts, a multi-scale analysis is considered. First, a global model provides the spatial distribution of normal, tangential and fatigue loadings for every contact. "Specific" loading cases were simulated using a local FEM model involving a Crossland fatigue stress analysis and a critical distance approach to correct the stress-gradient effects. Mono-contact fretting fatigue experiments were then performed reproducing the exact same loading cases. The comparison between numerical predictions and experimental results showed that a very good prediction of crack-nucleation is achieved using this strategy. However, total failures were not systematically observed. It is believed to be related to the manufacturing process. Wire drawing induces a longitudinal microstructure which promotes cracks with a low diving angle, rather than cracks propagating directly into the bulk. 3D-surface-crack simulations confirm a crack arrest phenomenon induced by the contact-induced compressive stress field.