Simplified Limit Load Estimation of Components With Cracks Using the Reference Two-Bar Structure

Limit loads for different crack configurations are determined in this paper by invoking the concept of equivalence of “static indeterminacy” that relates a multidimensional component configuration to a “reference two-bar structure.” Simple scaling relationships are developed that enable rapid determination of limit loads. The method is applied to different crack configurations, and the limit loads are compared with corresponding results obtained from inelastic finite element analysis.