Simulation of Distortion and Residual Stress Development During Heat Treatment of Steel Castings
ABSTRACT
Researcher at the University of Iowa investigated and found that a proper management of heat treatment and associated processing can prevent detrimental thermal and residual stresses leading to distortion, cracking, rework and weld repair in high strength steel casting production. They have investigated the stresses and distortions developed during solidification and cooling of steel casting. Based on the study, they will develop a computer model which will accurately predict heat transfer, residual stresses, and microstructure and property changes in steel. This technology will reduce the corrective measures in trial and error procedures in steel casting processing and will allow economic use of heat treatment resources.