Finite Element Analysis of Effect of Weld Toe Radius and Plate Thickness on Fatigue Life of Butt Welded Joint

Mechanical parts during service may be subjected to cyclical loading and high stresses, which make
fatigue life prediction extremely important. The finite element method is commonly used in research
institutions and industry in order to estimate life span of mechanical parts. In this study, an
experimental investigation of the geometrical dimensions and mechanical properties of a weld joint, and the commercial finite element analysis software, ANSYS10, were used to carry out a study to estimate the effect of plate thickness and weld toe radius on fatigue life.