Weight functions and stress intensity factors for pin‐loaded single‐edge notch bend specimen

A recently developed pin‐loaded single‐edge notch bend specimen provides an alternative to the single‐edge notch tension specimen commonly used for small‐crack growth testing. In this paper, weight functions for pin‐loaded single‐edge notch bend specimen are derived by using two methods, the classical analytical weight function method and the newly developed numerical weight function complex variable Taylor series expansion method. Excellent agreement between the two methods is achieved. Based on these weight functions, accurate stress intensity factors for two load cases, that is, pin‐loading and Dugdale loading, which is required for plasticity‐induced crack‐closure analysis based on the strip‐yield model, are determined.