Anisotropy of crack resistance in Zr-2.5% Nb alloy channel tubes

Anisotropy of crack resistance of Zr-2.5% Nb alloy channel tubes is considered. The anisotropy features critical opening (δc) of cracks with different orientation under three-point bending of samples with 4x4 mm cross section. A method is proposed for describing orientation dependence of δc as a functions of stressed state rigidity in the apex of crack. The method relies on the determination of structural and texture parameters and allows to estimate an individual contribution of the structure and texture in crack resistance of channel tube material