Published online by Cambridge University Press: 15 May 2014
A way of estimating Stress Intensity Factors is proposed by extending available solutions (solid and crack configurations) to stress fields not considered in available formulations. The accuracy of the proposed estimation is considered with respect to fatigue life assessment and crack shape tracing. It is aimed as very fast initial estimation, in comparison with the use of Finite Elements, in those cases were a high stress gradient is observed: stress concentrations (holes, notches, grooves) or due to surface residual stresses produced by machining techniques or induced –on purpose- to improve fatigue life (for example, by shot-peening), where no SIF solutions are available.