Abstract: A finite element elastic-plastic stress-strain analysis is completed for the cylindrical case with a hole.According to the stress-strain analysis the equivalent simulation members of thin plate with holes are designed to replace the cylindrical case in the fatigue life predictions and tests.The low cycle fatigue life predictions and tests have been accomplished with the local strain approach for the cylindrical cases and the equivalent simulation members.The results prove that the equivalent simulation is feasible.Finally the design criterion of the equivalent simulation members is found out.Therefore this work provides a basis for designing equivalent simulation members to replace the complex members in the low cycle fatigue life predictions and tests.