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Finite element modelling of smart TRIP steel sensors and systems.

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Date

2003

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Abstract

Transformation Induced Plasticity (TRIP) steels undergo a phase transformation when subjected to high levels of mechanical strain. This transformation from a paramagnetic austenitic parent phase to a ferromagnetic martensitic phase is irreversible and the resultant magnetic properties may therefore be used as a measure of strain history. The transformation behaviour of TRIP steels has been recognised as a potential smart characteristic and various proposals have appeared aimed at producing a structure that performs its primary structural function as well a strain sensing function simultaneously. However the strain induced nature of the transformation implies that transformation will occur in areas of high stress concentration and therefore engineered stress concentration features will be required to provide a consistent measure of the changes in the magnetic properties of the material as a function of applied load. In order to predict the performance of smart TRIP steel sensors, an analysis method capable of quantifying the effectiveness of a component in its dual role as structure and sensor is needed. The thesis addresses the development of a methodology for correlating the changing magnetic permeability of TRIP steel sensors and structures with martensitic transformation behaviour. The prediction of the deformation behaviour including transformation is implemented by considering a mechanical analysis based on the finite element method and a constitutive model incorporating strain-induced martensitic transformation kinetics. .Extensions to the model which allow for a wide range of deformation rates and temperatures are also discussed. In order to demonstrate the application of the methodology, an analysis of a simple tensile element used in strain measurement applications is presented. The analysis also includes the effect of temperature on the performance of the sensor. An analysis of a design proposal for a smart aircraft bolt is also included to investigate the effects of geometry, particularly engineered stress concentrations, and sensor placement.

Description

Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of Natal, Durban, 2003.

Keywords

Austenitic stainless steel., Martensitic transformations., Martensitic stainless steel., Martensite., Finite element method., Strains and stresses., Deformations (Mechanics), Theses--Mechanical engineering.

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