High-Frequency mechanical impact treatment of welded joints

Abstract

In welded structures, fatigue damage often occurs in welds, which are the points of geometrical and material discontinuity. Accordingly, post-weld treatment methods have been developed. One of the relatively new methods is the high-frequency mechanical impact treatment. The method is characterised by the change in weld geometry, local increase in hardness, and elimination of residual stresses generated by the welding process. An overview of this method is provided, and areas requiring further consideration are highlighted.

Keywords

• welded joints
• fatigue
• post-weld treatment
• hfmi