Dynamic crack propagation analysis based on the s-version of the finite element method

A strategy to efficiently analyse dynamic crack propagation based on the s-version of the finite element method (s-method) is proposed. This strategy superimposes a local mesh over the area that includes the propagating crack tip, which is made possible by the flexible definition of the local mesh. For a strictly accurate evaluation based on the local fracture stress criterion, we introduce the nodal force release technique to the local mesh to simulate dynamic crack propagation. Based on the numerical results, we identify the appropriate global and local mesh conditions required to achieve accurate and efficient local stress evaluations. Comparisons with the standard finite element method using equivalent accuracies show that the proposed strategy can successfully reduce numerical costs. Our results thus demonstrate that the proposed strategy for dynamic crack propagation analysis based on the s-method significantly improves the efficiency of dynamic crack propagation analysis. •A strategy to efficiently analyse dynamic crack propagation is proposed.•It is based on the s-version of the FEM and the nodal force release technique.•The local mesh is superposed on the dynamically moving crack tip area.•We apply the local fracture stress criterion for brittle crack propagation in steel.•The proposed strategy significantly improves the efficiency of analyses.