Both scientifically and technologically, it is important to study the effects of electric current pulses on the structural integrity of metallic components. As an electric current reverses its direction across a crack, massive current crowding occurs at the crack tip, thereby generating a non-uniform temperature field sourcing away from the crack tip, and considerable electromagnetic forces are generated on the crack faces that open the crack in Mode I. Recent studies have shown that due to the synergistic effects of the above two stimuli, a pre-existing flaw may grow as well as heal upon application of an electric current pulse of high density. While one is a bane for structural integrity, the other one is a boon to in-service components. Here, we will discuss the reasons behind crack propagation upon application of an electric current and then explore the attributes responsible for a transition from flaw propagation to flaw healing upon passage of an electric current pulse. Furthermore, the synergetic role of mechanical load and magnetic field in the propagation of a pre-existing flaw will be discussed. We will establish the complementary roles of electric current, magnetic field and mechanical load in the failure of pre-cracked metallic sheets.
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