Enforcing of an analytical solution of spot welds into finite element analysis for fatigue-life estimation

The present paper deals with the problem of numerical estimation of fatigue life in spot welded structures. It is evidenced that the use of a particular suited analytical solution inside the finite element calculation is possible and provides gains in both accuracy and computer time saving. The main point discussed in the paper regards the approach to discretize the analytical solution of the region surrounding the spot weld to the mesh of the rest of the structure. Independence to mesh refinement is achieved very early as discussed through examples. Chance is given to account of progressive damaging of spot welds. Comparison with traditional mesh techniques is also performed