Structural materials durability statistical assessment taking into account threshold sensitivity

Abstract

This work presents an experimental—analytical study of the possibility of applying the method of the greatest probability to evaluate the sensitive thresholds of the bottom (N0) and top (Nk) of the statistical distribution of the mechanical structural characteristics. For the structural materials alloyed steel 15Cr2MoVA, steel C45 and aluminium alloy D16T1, the statistical distribution of proportional limit, yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, reduction in area, cyclic stress was estimated, as well as the following statistical parameters: mathematical mean, average square devi-ation, dispersion, asymmetry, variation coefficient, and excess. Purpose: to determine whether the limits of the sensitivity of the statistical distribution of the mechanical characteristics have been computed using the maximum likelihood method. Value: there is a certain upward and downward flattening of the probability curves in the statistical distribution curves of the fatigue test results. This implies that the chosen law of the distribution of random variables has an effect on the appear-ance of errors. These errors are unacceptable given the importance of accurately determining the reliability and durability of transport means, shipbuilding, machinery, and other important struc-tures. Our results could potentially explain why sensitive limits cannot be applied to the statistical distribution of the mechanical characteristics of structural materials.