Get started
Work

Rotational Bending Fatigue Crack Initiation and Early Extension Behavior of Runner Blade Steels in Air and Water Environments

Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the fatigue cracking behavior of super martensitic stainless steel in air and water environments, highlighting the critical influence of environmental factors on its mechanical properties. By examining the distribution of fatigue test data, the Weibull three-parameter model was identified as the most accurate descriptor of fatigue life data in both environments. Key findings reveal that, in air, cracks predominantly propagate along the densest crystallographic planes, whereas, in water, corrosive media significantly accelerate crack initiation and propagation, reducing fatigue resistance, creating more tortuous crack paths, and inducing microvoids and secondary cracks at the crack tip. These corrosive effects adversely alter the material’s microstructure, profoundly impacting fatigue life and crack propagation rates. The insights gained from this research are crucial for understanding the performance of super martensitic stainless steel in aqueous environments, offering a reliable basis for its engineering applications and contributing to the development of more effective design and maintenance strategies.
Source: Metals
DOI: 10.3390/met15070783
Language: English
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
OpenAlex ID: W4412200501
FWCI: 0.263
Cites: 32
Cited by: 1
Related to: 10