Application Note: X-Ray Diffraction on Additively Manufactured Parts

In this application robotized X-ray diffraction was used to measure the planar principal stress on parts manufactured using the additive manufacturing technique.

The problem: Residual stress in additive manufactured parts

A research institution is interested in developing more accurate crack propagation models in Inconel parts manufactured using the additive manufacturing technique selective laser melting (SLM). They must validate numerical models with experimental data.

The testing method: X-ray diffraction

X-ray diffraction was used to measure the planar principal stress on the surface of various locations in an L-shaped SLM component.

Diagram of sample residual stress measurement locations
Figure 1: Diagram of sample measurement locations

The Xstress robot allows for fast programmable measurement points which provided the experimental data the research team required. At most locations, the experimentally measured data and predicted stress was within 10%. These results helped the team validate and refine their simulation.

The results

The chart below shows a comparison of numerical and experimental principal residual stresses at 17 locations.

The chart below shows a comparison of numerical and experimental principal residual stresses at 17 locations.

Instruments used for this application

Xstress Robot

Xstress Robot makes stress measurements by X-ray diffraction easy and flexible on complicated parts, large and small.

xstress robot

Stresstech Bulletin 13: Types of Residual Stresses

Stresstech Bulletin 12: Measurement Methods of Residual Stresses


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Article Type: Application note
Technology: X-ray diffraction
Product Line: Xstress Robot