Preparation of Samples used in Fatigue Testing of Aircraft Materials

The application of a new type of alloy requires the evaluation of its properties, which is typically achieved with destructive methods. For this purpose, among others, static and fatigue mechanical tests are performed. Tests are performed on standardized samples in a way which reflects the level of stress occurring in real elements. These tests should limit random errors associated with sample preparation. For this reason the proper preparation of samples is crucial, not only in terms of their geometric dimensions but also in terms of the residual stress level. A sample preparation process was developed, involving checking samples’ surface for cracks, scratches, roughness, and the state of stress. The measurements are performed with nondestructive methods so as not to affect the proceeding research. In this study, the residual stress and features of a mechanically prepared surface were characterized. The specimens were subjected to various surface finishes mainly, lathe turning and grinding surface conditions. The effects of residual surface stress (measured by XRD) were studied after machining and polishing.