Numerical analysis of fatigue crack growth of hip implant. (July 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sedmak, Aleksandar; Čolić, Katarina; Grbović, Aleksandar; Balać, Igor; Burzić, Meri
• Is Part Of: Engineering fracture mechanics. Volume 216(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-07
• Subjects: Hip implant -- Ti-6Al-4V -- Fracture toughness -- Fatigue crack growth -- X-FEM; Fracture mechanics -- Periodicals; Rupture, Mécanique de la -- Périodiques; Fracture mechanics; Periodicals; 620.112605
• DOI: 10.1016/j.engfracmech.2019.106492
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0013-7944

Abstract

Highlights: High potential of XFEM in analysing fatigue crack growth in complex 3D geometries. Results for the equivalent stress intensity factor can indicate point of unstable crack growth. Initail crack dimensions are assumed according to the experience with failures of hip implants. Estimation of number of cycles for active person walking pattern before implant failure. Possible to recommend a certain lifestyle for patients with crack defect implants. Abstract: Fatigue crack growth in hip implant has been analysed using the extended finite element method. Toward this aim, the three-dimensional finite element model is created and used in ABAQUS and Morfeo/crack add-in for ABAQUS to simulate fatigue crack growth from initial value up to the critical point. Initial crack dimensions are assumed according to the experience with failures of hip implants, whereas the final, critical value was estimated using data for fracture toughness obtained by experimental testing of hip implant made of Ti-6Al-4V alloy. Results for the equivalent stress intensity factor and number of cycles in each of 40 steps of fatigue crack growth are presented and analysed, indicating the point of unstable crack growth.