Accurate measurement of residual stress on any steel using the centre hole method

Abstract

The centre hole method has been shown to be a simple and reasonably accurate method of measuring residual stress. With a 1.6 mm diameter hole, the method can be applied on operational plant and the equipment required is sufficiently portable for use on site. Its application has, however, been limited to use on low‐strength steels, due to problems associated with forming the hole. This paper describes the development of an air‐abrasive technique for forming the hole, which allows the centre hole method to be used on any steel with a measurement accuracy of better than±8%.