Numerical modelling strategies using implicit and explicit methods to simulate quasi-static and dynamic three-points bend fracture tests of a ductile steel

Three-point bend fracture tests have been conducted at different loading rates with a quadratic martensitic steel. The failure energy has been found to increase with loading rate. To get insights in this increase a numerical investigation has been undertaken with different strategies using ABAQUS and IMPETUS softwares in order to address quasi-static and dynamic loading conditions. Simulations were conducted with the ABAQUS software in order to carry out a comparative analysis of both implicit and explicit approaches. In addition to standard Finite Element Method (FEM) applied to quasi-static and dynamic conditions, the eXtended-Finite Element Method (X-FEM) was applied to quasistatic conditions. In both approaches, implicit and explicit, crack initiation and propagation were governed by a critical plastic strain threshold combined with a displacement-based damage evolution criterion. Simulations conducted with the IMPETUS software use an explicit approach and second order elements for both quasi-static and dynamic loading conditions. A node-splitting method using an energy-based damage criterion was employed to simulate the crack initiation and propagation. Experimental data and numerical results have been compared, allowing to determine the ability of these two softwares to simulate accurately three-point bend fracture tests.