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The proposed research project will provide the opportunity to use an:
1. Advanced in-situ experimental method (neutron diffraction) and numerical simulation techniques to measure and predict the distributions of residual stresses when cyclic loads are applied to fillet weld joints containing a surface-breaking flaw. The load applied will be in the elastic shakedown region assuming no flaws in the joints.
2. Destructive methods, such as contour method, Deep-hole drilling and centre-hole drilling techniques, may also be used to measure residual stresses in the project.
3.The crack behaviour at the residual stress field will be thoroughly examined experimentally and numerically.
4. Microstructural studies will be also performed to identify the key elements contributing to the crack growth at the residual stress field. It is anticipated that an analytical method can be developed to adequately predict the crack behaviour during the fatigue design life by considering the effect of residual stresses at the end of the project. This will assist to design a safe welded structure within the design life by controlling residual stress distribution in the joints.
5. The outcomes will potentially benefit for standards/codes in which the treatment of residual stress in structural integrity assessment is addressed.
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