Citation

Johnston GO. Reliab. Eng. 1982; 3(6): 423-448.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1982, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/0143-8174(82)90035-X

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Over recent years, the study of statistical methods applied to fracture and fatigue of materials has escalated. Many experimental programmes have been initiated to supply 'real' data, upon which estimates of failure probabilities may be based. There is a wealth of published literature which this paper attempts to cover.

For easy reference, the papers have been classified where possible into broad categories. Initially, work of a more general nature is reviewed. The problems of input data are discussed with particular reference to the flaw distribution, the reliability of non-destructive testing, the fracture toughnes properties of the material under consideration and the growth of defects by fatigue.

Applications have been especially plentiful where high integrity is required, such as in the pressure vessel and off-shore industries. This is reflected by the large quantity of literature. Finally, a section is devoted to relevant mathematical techniques.