Residual stresses in AA6082 shrink-fit systems: Finite element calculations and neutron diffraction measurements

Abstract

The residual stress field in shrink-fit disc-ring systems was investigated in the framework of a general research, the final goal of which is to establish optimisation criteria for the joining procedure in the AA6082 aluminium alloy. In particular, two different procedures were considered: the traditional thermoelastic and an innovative thermoelastoplastic coupling. The two processes were simulated by finite element calculations, which were optimised by comparison with existing analytic models.

Neutron diffraction experiments were carried out on samples obtained by the two procedures. The comparison between the theoretical and experimental results showed a satisfactory agreement. Small differences found were ascribed to already existing residual stresses, which were actually measured in uncoupled samples.

Key Words:

• A1 alloy 6082
• Shrink-fit
• Residual stresses
• Finite element
• Neutron diffraction