The Measurement of Residual Macrostresses using Neutrons

Abstract

The basic goal of this paper is to convey essential information on neutron macrostress measurements to potential users of the method. After a discussion on residual stresses, the use of neutrons, which makes possible the measurement of triaxial macrostresses through the depth of engineering components due to the lower absorption of neutrons by most engineering materials, is presented. This is followed by a discussion on the physical and analytical basis of the use of diffraction for the measurement of such stresses. Next is a discussion on experimental aspects relevant to potential users, including probe volumes, stress-free reference standards, sample quality, errors, and the determination of full stress tensors. Lastly, an example of the determination of residual macrostress tensors in a welded cylindrical section of a solid rocket motor casing is presented.