Neutron and synchrotron diffraction measurements of residual stress in steel weldments

This paper explores the use of state-of-the-art instruments such as neutron and synchrotron diffraction for evaluation of residual stress in carbon steel welded components. The study shows significant variation in transverse residual strain/stress distribution across the length of the weld. Measurements before and after post weld heat treatment are reported together with traditional mechanical tests. The changes in residual stress distribution as weld beads are added in multi-bead welds are also presented. Important practical results are: i) The start and end of the weld are the most critical parts of the weldment. Implementations of run-in and run-out (which are subsequently ground off) can minimize the residual stress at the start and end of the weld. ii) Manipulation of the sequence especially around the weld toes can minimize the value of the residual stress in that region. iii) Post weld heat treatment is very effective at reducing residual stresses.