Numerical Prediction of Axial Residual Stress Relaxation caused by Bending-Straightening in Quenching-Induction-Hardened Axle Shafts

Abstract

In this study, a computer simulation technique is developed for numerically predicting the residual stress relaxation caused by bending-straightening in quenching-induction-hardened axle shafts. Both the strength and residual stress distributions inside the shaft before bending-straightening are taken into account in the simulation model. The calculated residual stress distribution is compared with that measured using the contour method to discuss the effectiveness of the developed technique. In addition, the generation of plastic strain due to bending-straightening is considered thorough a theoretical analysis based on material mechanics in addition to the numerical results obtained using the developed simulation technique.