Ĵ-Integral analysis of nuclear piping with a circumferential crack using three dimensional finite element method

Fracture mechanics analysis using the finite element method plays an important role in the JAERI’s program of unstable pipe fracture tests. The authors have been developing EPAS-J code (Engineering Problem Analysis System-JAHCL version). Two dimensional fracture mechanics parameters such as J and Ĵ-integral values crack opening displacement and crack opening angle can be calculated using a thick shell element and a plate element for stationary and propagating crack. In the updated version, three dimensional fracture mechanics parameters can be calculated using a twenty node isoparametric solid element. The line integral is used for evaluation of J and Ĵ-integral values. In this report, the results of analyses of three dimensional fracture mechanics parameter are discussed.