Residual stresses form a self-equilibrating stress distribution that exists in the absence of any mechanical loading. They are created during fabrication or by any loading which causes yielding of the material. Therefore residual stresses need to be considered in any Structural Integrity Assessment if only to demonstrate that they are insignificant.
For lower temperature operation of structures, the influence on fracture processes needs to be considered. At higher temperatures, when creep can occur, the relaxation of residual stress during service will induce additional damage over and above that due to the service loading. This is particularly true for creep-brittle materials.
In this seminar, six important elements will be considered with emphasis on the practical application of the results and methods:
1. The measurement of residual stress distributions and their characterisation.
2. The influence on fast fracture and damage processes below the creep range.
3. The Influence on creep deformation and rupture processes.
4. Stress relief cracking.
5. Incorporation into computer codes and assessment procedures.
6. The robustness of residual stress assessment techniques
The topics being discussed are relevant to all who work with structures in the following industries:
* Power generation (nuclear, conventional and offshore) *
Marine * Aerospace