A computer simulation study of Hertzian cone crack growth

A general method for simulating on a computer the growth of the cone-shaped fracture that forms under Hertzian contact loading is outlined. The program involves an incrementing procedure in which both contact circle and cone crack are grown in piecewise manner, according to suitable rate equations. The contact circle expands at a rate determined by the mode of indenter loading, and thereby sets up a time-varying stress field. Appropriate fracture-mechanics criteria are then invoked to calculate the response of the growing crack to the contact stresses. Effects of loading mode, specimen environment and temperature, and size and location of the initial flaw from which the cone crack nucleates are investigated systematically. The computer predictions compare favorably with available experimental data.