The X-Ray Diffraction Measurement of Residual Stresses in Aluminum Alloys

Abstract This paper presents the theoretical and practical aspects of measuring residual stresses by X-ray diffraction with emphasis on the analysis of aluminum alloys. The theoretical considerations of radiation) beam geometry, and peak location will be discussed in regard to establishing optimum analysis techniques. The precision and reproducibility of this technique have been investigated so that results can be applied accurately. The approach, however, is basically a practical one, with the intent of studying residual stress systems as they affect engineering applications. Residual stress systems produced by thermal and mechanical treatments have been determined and the effect of treatment modifications and variations on the resultant stress system have been analyzed. The effect of operational variables such as time and temperature on the developed stress system are shown. From this, the merits of a particular treatment can be determined with respect to its intended application. Analysis of solution heat-treated and quenched 2014 aluminum has shown a significant effect of the quench temperature on the resultant residual stress system. The results obtained from shot-peening this alloy are presented, as well as the effect of time and temperature on the shot-peened stress gradient.