REDUCTION OF RESIDUAL-STRESSES IN WELDMENTS WITH EXPLOSIVE TREATMENTS

A technique is described that uses explosives to shock load welded structures to reduce residual stresses. Explosives were applied to butt joint weld specimens of ASTM A36 structural steel. The shock loads substantially reduced longitudinal tensile residual stresses in the weld heat-affected zone and, in some cases, induced compressive residual stresses. Since fatigue failures are often exacerbated by residual stresses, these results indicate that explosive treatments have potential as an effective method for extending the life of welded structures.