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Sponsored by ASCE Continuing Education and the Structural Engineering Institute (SEI).

INSTRUCTOR: Steven Altstadt, Ph.D., P.E.

Course Length:  1 hour

Purpose and Background

Fatigue resistance limits are a key consideration for the long-term performance of metal structures and mechanical equipment that are subject to cyclic loading. The most common engineering analysis approaches used to quantify the resistance is based on the use of stress range vs. cycle curves (S-N). This webinar gives a broad overview of the origins of this approach, review the current limitations, and recommend best practices. It presents case studies. Attendees will gain a better understanding of how to use these analysis tools.

Primary Discussion Topics

• Basic review of metal fatigue
• Historical background for fatigue design and analysis with S-N curves
• State of the practice
• Review of common errors and omissions

Learning Outcomes

• Recognize when metal fatigue should be a consideration for design or assessment of metal structures and mechanical components
• Gain a broad understanding of the role of S-N in engineering calculations for fatigue life predictions
• Apply S-N curves for common situations
• Recognize the limitations of S-N curves and when more advanced approaches could be required

Webinar Benefits

• Avoid costly errors
• Learn about the latest methods
• Compare different industrys methods and viewpoints
• Recognize cost vs. benefit considerations in design and testing
• Understand the current research trends
• Learn about upcoming improvements
• Discuss current limitations

Assessment of Learning Outcomes

Students' achievement of the learning outcomes will be assessed via a short post-assessment (true-false, multiple choice and fill in the blank questions).

Intended Audience

• Civil engineers
• Civil-structural engineers
• Mechanical engineers
• Architects
• Naval architects

Webinar Outline

• Very brief overview of metal fatigue
• Construction of S-N curves from test data
• Applications
• Common errors and misunderstandings
• Cost vs. benefit
• Final thoughts

How to Earn your CEUs/PDHs and Receive Your Certificate of Completion

To receive your certificate of completion, you will need to complete a short on-line post-test and receive a passing score of 70% or higher within 1 year of purchasing the course.

How do I convert CEUs to PDHs?

1.0 CEU = 10 PDHs [Example: 0.1 CEU = 1 PDH]