Computational modelling of high-cycle fatigue using a continuum based model

In this paper a computational implementation of continuum based transversally isotropic fatigue model is described. The key idea of the continuum based HCF-model is the moving endurance surface where the movement is described by a back stress type tensor, the evolution of which is described by a rate type equation. Furthermore, damage accumulation is also governed with a rate type evolution equation. The model is implemented in the Abaqus FE-program using the user material subroutine. Two strategies to perform a fatigue analysis are compared in a standard cycling loading case. The first analysis reflects the procedure used in a standard fatigue computation. In the second analysis type the effect of evolving damage fields on fatigue life is investigated.