Evaluation of hyper-tempering and machining residual stresses in a pipe and a cast elbow

Cast elbows in austeno-ferritic stainless steel from the primary circuit of nuclear power plants suffer from important residual stresses initiated during their manufacturing (hyper-tempering followed by machining). Measurements and calculations were performed to determine these stresses. Measurements show a difference between circumferential stresses in the depth of a pipe and of an elbow. On the contrary, calculations indicate similar profiles. Thus, the experimental differences cannot be explained by a geometrical effect of the elbow. (J.S.). 4 refs., 5 figs