Accumulation of damage in plates subjected to steady mechanical load and cyclic thermal downshocks on both surfaces

Previously reported computations are extended to analyze a Bree plate subjected to steady mechanical load and cyclic thermal downshocks on both surfaces. It is shown that two critical plate thicknesses can be identified, one below which thermal cycling has no effect, and one above which the full effects of rapid transient thermal loading are observed. The significant effects which material properties, such as the degree of strain hardening present, can have on the plate behavior are also illustrated. These findings are relevant to design of fast reactor components which experience loadings of this type. 5 refs