Probabilistic fatigue analysis of improved tubular bridge joints considering multiple crack initiation sites

This paper summarizes a series of probabilistic linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) calculations conducted to study the effectiveness of weld improvement methods in prolonging the fatigue life of tubular bridge joints. A simple model is proposed which considers the effect of weld improvement, as well as the presence of multiple potential crack initiation sites, in a probabilistic manner. An example is presented to show how the model can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of three different improvement strategies.