CREEP CRACK GROWTH ASSESSMENT METHODS

This paper describes engineering methods for assessing defects in components operating at elevated temperatures where creep crack growth needs to be considered. Practical aspects such as the treatment of secondary and residual stresses and the inclusion of realistic creep laws are included. Recent finite element results for complex loading are described, as validation of the assessment methods. The British Energy R5 procedures and the European FITNET procedures, which treat creep crack growth, are briefly described