Numerical solution for multiple crack problem in an infinite plate under compression

This paper investigates a numerical solution for multiple crack problem in an infinite plate under remote compression. The influence of friction is taken into account. In the first step of the solution, we make a full contact assumption on the crack faces. The full contact assumption means that one component of the dislocation distribution vanishes, and the first mode stress intensity factors (K-1) at the crack tips become zero. On the above-mentioned assumption, the problem can be solved by using integral equation method, and the second mode stress intensity factors (K-2)at the crack tips can be evaluated. Meantime, after solving the integral equation the normal contact stress on the crack faces can be evaluated. The next step is to examine the full contact assumption. If the contact stresses on the crack faces are definitely negative, the solution is true. Otherwise, the obtained solution is not true. It is found from present study that in most cases the full contact condition is satisfied, and only in a few cases the full contact condition is violated. Numerical examples are given. It is found that the friction can lower the stress intensity factors at crack tips in general.