The use of the C∗ parameter in predicting creep crack propagation rates

Abstract

The applicability of the C∗ parameter for the prediction of creep crack propagation rates is considered. A new method for estimating C∗ is presented, the results from which show good agreement with those from an existing technique. Experimental results from creep crack growth tests, conducted on a 1 Cr Mo V steel using both compact tension and single edge notch bend specimens, indicate that good correlation with C∗ is obtained once the effects of stress redistribution become negligible. Finally, comparisons are drawn between C∗ and other possible correlating parameters, and the limitations of each approach are discussed.