Key developments in the fatigue design of welded constructions

Fatigue design rules for welded constructions are well established. However, there is considerable scope for improvement on the basis of advances in research and the changing needs of industry. Indeed, a turning point is being approached when major changes, even to the basic approach, will be needed to make the rules safer, but also more accurate, more comprehensive and more closely aligned with modern computer-based design practice. As background to these changes, this paper presents a critical review of the current status of fatigue design procedures, technical and practical problems in their application and potential solutions for the future. The main topics addressed are fatigue life prediction, stresses used in fatigue design, material and welding effects, significance of residual stresses, definition and evaluation of weld quality in the context of fatigue, and the influence of environment.