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Relaxation Methods for Measuring Residual Stresses: Techniques and Opportunities

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Abstract

Relaxation methods, also called “destructive” methods, are commonly used to evaluate residual stresses in a wide range of engineering components. While seemingly less attractive than non-destructive methods because of the specimen damage they cause, the relaxation methods are very frequently the preferred choice because of their versatility and reliability. Many different methods and variations of methods have been developed to suit various specimen geometries and measurement objectives. Previously, only specimens with simple geometries could be handled, but now the availability of sophisticated computational tools and of high-precision machining and measurement processes has greatly expanded the scope of the relaxation methods for residual stress evaluation. This paper reviews several prominent relaxation methods, describes recent advances, and indicates some promising directions for future developments.

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Acknowledgment

This work was financially supported by a grant from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). Dr. Michael Prime kindly reviewed the manuscript.

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  1. Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z4, Canada

    G. S. Schajer (SEM member)

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Schajer, G.S. Relaxation Methods for Measuring Residual Stresses: Techniques and Opportunities. Exp Mech 50, 1117–1127 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11340-010-9386-7

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