PSI - Issue 79

Mays H. Udah et al. / Procedia Structural Integrity 79 (2026) 53–64

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Fig. 3. Stress distributions and the expected initial crack's location, F biting = 453 N

Fatigue damage was assessed based on the direction of the principal stresses [35, 36]. A range of loads was applied to study and compare the extent of crack growth. The effect of various loads on crack growth is illustrated in Fig. 4. As the load increases, both crack propagation and extension also increase.

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(b)

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Fig. 4. FEM crack propagation with three loads: (a) 300 N; (b) 400 N; (c) 615 N

3. Results and discussion In this study, a solid structure analysis was performed using a bite force of 453 N to identify areas of stress intensity (Fig. 3). This analysis allowed for a detailed assessment of crack initiation. The solid model was integrated into fracture analysis models, providing a comprehensive evaluation of fracture behavior. 3.1. Crack path To validate the current model, crack analysis and fracture parameters, such as the SIF and fatigue life were compared with findings from existing literature [7]. The crack initiates at the points of maximum stress on the crown and propagates longitudinally (see Fig. 5). The stress at the crack tip is illustrated at both the initial and final locations.