Experimental and numerical investigation of strain distribution of notched lead fatigue test specimen

Abstract

The work here presented focuses on the test methodology related to effect of stress concentrators in strain controlled structures. Cable sheathing as used in subsea power cables are investigated by cyclic fatigue testing, Digital Image Correlation (DIC) and 3D Finite Element Analysis. Focus is put on the strain distribution in conventional specimen geometries and under the presence of artificial notches. It is evident that standardized fatigue testing provides limited input to the final fatigue life of strain controlled power cable sheathing both accounting for expected and unintended stress concentrators. The limitations can be explained by measured strain distribution inherent in most fatigue test specimens. The use of DIC and 3D FEM provides valuable insight into both the theoretical and practical stress and strain distribution. This can help in understanding and overcoming geometrical test constraints, when compared to the actual component loading mode.