Multiple-method CTOA Stable Tearing Characterization of Three Metallic Alloys

Abstract Over the past several years, the crack tip opening angle (CTOA) has been identified as one of the most promising fracture parameters with which to characterize low constraint stable tearing and instability in structural metallic alloys. This study presents the results of experimental stable tearing characterizations performed on three typical structural metallic alloys, two aerospace grade aluminums and a titanium alloy. Specific attention is given to the measurement methods used and the correlation between CTOA and δ5. The effects of the material and the measurement method on CTOA are observed, and a clear relationship is seen.