Low cycle fatigue prediction for cylinder head considering notch stress-strain correction proposed by Neuber

Due to the complex geometry and loading conditions, engines cylinder heads are the most challenging components among all parts internal combustion engines. They must withstand severe cyclic thermo-mechanical loading throughout their lifetime. Low cycle fatigue (LCF) prediction for cylinder head considering notch stress-strain correction proposed by Neuber was investigated. For this purpose, first Solidworks software was used to model the cylinder head. Then Ansys Workbench software was used to determine temperature and stress distribution of the cylinder head. Finally, in order to study the fatigue life based on LCF approach, the results were fed into the nCode Design Life software. The thermo-mechanical analysis showed that the maximum temperature and stress happen in the valves bridge between the two exhaust valves. The results of the FEA correspond with experimental tests performed by researchers, and demonstrated the cylinder heads cracked in this region. The numerical results showed that the area where the maximum temperature and stress is occurred is where the least LCF is predicted.