Guides ยท Science
Materials Fatigue Basics
See how repeated loads cause cracks
This guide explains materials fatigue: how cyclic loading creates microscopic cracks, S-N curves, stress concentrations, and practical ways to design or maintain parts to reduce fatigue risk.
- fatigue
- cyclic loading
- cracks
- sn curve
- stress concentration
What fatigue is
Repeated stress cycles grow tiny cracks even below yield strength.
Stress concentrators
Notches, holes, and scratches raise local stress and start cracks.
S-N behavior
More cycles at lower stress; some materials have endurance limits, many do not.
Prevention
Smooth finishes, avoid sharp corners, remove corrosion, and inspect regularly.