Abstract
It has long been known that polarized light may be employed to analyse the stresses occurring in engineering parts. Recent modifications have simplified the apparatus required, so giving a wider scope to the application of photo-elasticity to engineering. The method of preparing transparent models for stress analysis is discussed, and the significance of the photo-elastic fringes is explained. Only the boundary stresses in the model are considered, and their importance is demonstrated by means of examples, such as the modification of the design of aero-engine parts so that a substantial increase in strength is attained. The procedure for evolving the best shape of fillet for a particular set of conditions is given.
The three-dimensional “freezing” technique is described, a technique which enables the boundary stresses in parts of complicated shape to be determined, and has the further advantage that an assessment of the elastic distortions may be made. Examples of the application of photo-elasticity include a connecting rod, crankshaft, poppet valve, and gear wheel.
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