The Finite Element Method for the Analysis of Non-Linear and ...

Creep
1. A primary creep stage, also known as transient creep, is the starting stage
during which hardening of the material leads to a decrease in the rate of flow
which is initially very high. (0 ≤ ε ≤ ε 1).
2. The secondary creep stage, also known as the steady state, is where the strain
rate is constant. (ε 1 ≤ ε ≤ ε 2).
3. A tertiary creep phase in which there is an increase in the strain rate up to the
fracture strain. (ε 2 ≤ ε ≤ ε R).
Institute of Structural Engineering Method of Finite Elements II 28