Abstract: In this paper, a semi-analytical method to solve the 3-dimensional problems of parallel multi-crack in an infinite elastic solid under remote uniaxial extension is proposed. Through introducing equivalent loads along crack surfaces and by using expansions of local coordinates, the problems are reduced to a set of Fredholm integral equations and thus a set of linear algebraic equations are obtained by series expansions. The solutions of this set of linear algebraic equat ions give the required answers of the crack problems discussed.
The paper is in two parts. Part (Ⅰ) here is for the theoretical analysis and general formulations. Numerical computations and examples are given in Part (Ⅱ).