Wöhler Curve

The Wöhler Curve, also known as an S-N curve, illustrates how different materials respond to repeated stress over time. It shows the relationship between the stress level applied to a material and the number of cycles it can endure before eventually cracking or breaking. Typically, higher stress levels lead to fewer cycles before failure, while lower stress allows the material to last longer. Engineers use this curve to predict a material’s fatigue life, ensuring structures and components are designed to withstand repeated use without unexpectedly breaking.