Plane stress linear elastic solutions are obtained for a straight slot with rounded ends
subject to remotely applied tensile tractions. The series solutions are obtained
using a Kolosov–Muskhhelishvili complex variable approach together with an
expansion technique developed extensively by G. N. Savin. The finite difference
solutions employ an orthogonal curvilinear coordinate system and simulate
loads applied at infinity using finite boundaries that are large in comparison
to the slot length. The slot shape is similar to the geometry found in the
D. Riabouchinsky free streamline problem for fluid flow around two flat plates.
Both uniaxial loadings normal to the slot and uniform biaxial loadings are
examined.
Keywords
stress concentration factor, Riabouchinsky free streamline
problem
