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The effect of relative humidity and coatings on the torsional fatigue of aluminum

An investigation of the combined effect of relative humidity and coatings on the fatigue of 2024-T351 aluminum in reversed torsion

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Abstract

Fatigue tests in reversed torsion were run on 2024-T351 aluminum alloy specimens in (1) uncoated state, (2) anodized with 0.1-mil (0.0025-mm) coating and (3) chromate conversion coating. Tests on all three groups were run at low (20–25 percent), medium (55–60 percent), and high (86–91 percent) relative humidity. Tests were run at stress levels of 90, 117, 138 MPa (13,000, 17,000, and 20,000 psi).

Results of test on anodized and on uncoated specimens showed no effect due to a change in relative humidity. Chromate coating showed an effect on fatigue life at low humidity but showed no effect at medium or at high humidity. The anodized coating caused a decrease in fatigue life when compared to uncoated specimens.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 24061, Blacksburg, VA

    J. H. Wilson (Assistant Professor of Agricultural Engineering) & H. H. Mabie (Professor of Mechanical Engineering)

  2. Black & Decker, Inc., 21601, Easton, MD

    T. H. Gogoll (Engineer)

Authors
  1. J. H. Wilson
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  2. H. H. Mabie
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  3. T. H. Gogoll
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Wilson, J.H., Mabie, H.H. & Gogoll, T.H. The effect of relative humidity and coatings on the torsional fatigue of aluminum. Experimental Mechanics 22, 392–397 (1982). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02325406

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02325406

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