Abstract
A consistent method is proposed to predict significant properties concerning the notch fatigue threshold from three experimental data: the fatigue limit of smooth specimens, the threshold stress intensity range for a long crack, and the effective stress intensity range at the threshold for a long crack. Based on the model of the intrinsic crack combined with crack closure, the fatigue limits for crack initiation and fracture from a notch, the length of a nonpropagating crack, and the notch tip radius at the branch point are all derived in a consistent way. The predicted results are compared with the experimental data of a low-carbon steel, and good agreement is obtained.