What is a fracture in metal caused by stress and fatigue of repeated forces called?

The term that accurately describes a fracture in metal caused by stress and fatigue from repeated forces is "fracture." In materials science and engineering, fractures can occur when a metal experiences cyclic loading, leading to microscopic changes in the material structure. Over time, these changes accumulate, resulting in eventual failure, known as fatigue failure.

The process involves crack initiation and propagation, which is a critical aspect to understand in rigging and hoisting operations. Recognizing that fractures in metals are often related to the stresses they endure helps in identifying potential failure points and ensuring safe handling of loads. Understanding this terminology is essential for anyone involved in lifting operations, as it reinforces the importance of inspection and maintenance of rigging equipment to prevent catastrophic failures caused by fatigue.