Abstract: “The cyclic stress-strain response of S960 at the toe of fillet-welded joint has been simulated by means of finite element method in order to gathering the needed data for fatigue life prediction process. The Femap software (Version 11.0.0) with NX Nastran 8.5 as its solver has been used in this simulation work. Since the special emphasis is on analyzing the cyclic behavior of weld toe and the softening effect on its cyclic behavior, for making a more accurate and realistic simulation, the 3D finite element model has been analyzed in two different categories: homogeneous (no softening) and inhomogeneous (with softening). The final cyclic stress-strain curve (CSSC) based on the stress and strain changes at weld toe for both cases have been obtained and compared”

Keywords: Cumulative damage fatigue; Numerical simulation; Cyclic stress-strain curve; Softening; Weld toe; Ultra high strength steel