Design and implementation of a multiaxial loading capability during heating on an engineering neutron diffractometer

O. Benafan, S. A. Padula, H. D. Skorpenske, K. An, R. Vaidyanathan

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

10 Scopus citations

Abstract

A gripping capability was designed, implemented, and tested for in situ neutron diffraction measurements during multiaxial loading and heating on the VULCAN engineering materials diffractometer at the spallation neutron source at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The proposed capability allowed for the acquisition of neutron spectra during tension, compression, torsion, and/or complex loading paths at elevated temperatures. The design consisted of age-hardened, Inconel® 718 grips with direct attachment to the existing MTS load frame having axial and torsional capacities of 100 kN and 400 N·m, respectively. Internal cooling passages were incorporated into the gripping system for fast cooling rates during high temperature experiments up to ∼1000 K. The specimen mounting couplers combined a threaded and hexed end-connection for ease of sample installation/removal without introducing any unwanted loads. Instrumentation of this capability is documented in this work along with various performance parameters. The gripping system was utilized to investigate deformation in NiTi shape memory alloys under various loading/control modes (e.g., isothermal, isobaric, and cyclic), and preliminary results are presented. The measurements facilitated the quantification of the texture, internal strain, and phase fraction evolution in NiTi shape memory alloys under various loading/control modes.

Original languageEnglish
Article number103901
JournalReview of Scientific Instruments
Volume85
Issue number10
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 1 2014
Externally publishedYes

Funding

FundersFunder number
National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationNNX11AI57A, NNX08AB51A
U.S. Department of EnergyDE-AC05-00OR22725

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