A method for the measurement of residual stresses using a fracture mechanics approach

Abstract

A simple method for measuring residual stresses in a plate is described. In this method residual stresses are evaluated using a fracture mechanics approach, that is, the strains or displacements measured at a point on the edge of a plate as a crack is introduced and extended from the edge are used to deduce the state of stresses that existed in the uncracked plate. Through finite element analyses and experiments this method is shown to be valid and effective for measuring the two-dimensional residual stress distribution of a welded plate.