Symmetric Edge Cracks in an Orthotropic Strip Under Normal Loading

The problem of two edge cracks of finite length, situated symmetrically in an orthotropic infinite strip of finite thickness 2 h , under normal point loading has been discussed. The displacements and stresses in plane strain conditions are expressed in terms of two harmonic functions. The problem is addressed by seeking the solution of a pair of simultaneous integral equations with Cauchy type singularities solved by finite Hilbert Transform technique. For large h , analytical expression for the stress intensity factor at the crack tip is obtained.