AFGROW is a user-friendly, flexible, and intuitive Damage Tolerance Analysis (DTA) framework that allows users to analyze crack initiation, fatigue crack growth, and fracture to predict the life of metallic structures. It is one of the most efficient and widely used crack growth life prediction tools available today. AFGROW was originally developed for aerospace applications; however, it can be applied to any type of metallic structure that experiences fatigue cracking. AFGROW has implemented API-579 stress intensity (K) solutions and burst criterion for fitness for service assessment (FFS) in pipeline applications.

AFGROW includes five crack growth rate models (Forman Equation, Walker Equation, Tabular lookup, Harter-T Method and NASGRO Equation). AFGROW also includes a strain-life based crack initiation capability with a large material parameter database and other options such as: user-defined stress intensity solutions, user-defined beta modification factors, and a residual stress analysis capability.

A variety of useful tools are also included (spectrum filtering, K-solution filtering, spectrum cycle counting, extensive cut/paste capabilities, and output to MS Excel). The AFGROW GUI includes real time crack growth animation, crack length vs. cycle plotting, and crack growth rate model plots with data overlay capability. AFGROW provides COM (Component Object Model) Automation interfaces that allows AFGROW to interface with other Windows applications to perform repetitive tasks or control AFGROW from these applications.

A spectrum generation tool (Spectrum Manager) is also included with AFGROW to assist users in developing and managing load history data to generate a loading spectrum.