Residual stresses measurements using strain gages - aluminum wheels

Abstract

Many engineering specifications, manufacturing procedures, inspection and quality control have begun to require that the residual stress of a particular component be evaluated. This is becoming as commonplace as the demands on the mechanical properties. In the country there are few research laboratories qualified to perform these tests and also found a worrying lack of skilled labor. Studying the formation and distribution of residual stress fields will improve the operational criteria of wheel safety, among other gains. It is known that these residual stress fields could be added to the effects of system load (tare weight plus occupation of vehicle traction, braking and torque combined). The results obtained used drilling method and rosette type strain gages, are convergent with similarity to those obtained using FEA simulation over critical region for global and superficial in principal stresses mode. The relevance of the present study and research on residual stresses meets safety improvements in car's wheel industry. © (2012) Trans Tech Publications, Switzerland.