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Verification of Coldworking and Interference Levels at Fastener Holes

Award Information
Agency: Department of Defense
Branch: Air Force
Contract: FA8650-04-M-3429
Agency Tracking Number: F041-241-2232
Amount: $99,997.00
Phase: Phase I
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: AF04-241
Solicitation Number: 2004.1
Timeline
Solicitation Year: 2004
Award Year: 2004
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): 2004-05-13
Award End Date (Contract End Date): 2005-03-13
Small Business Information
10737 Lexington Drive
Knoxville, TN 37932
United States
DUNS: 030664510
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 Beth Matlock
 Senior Materials Engineer
 (865) 966-5856
 Beth.Matlock@tec-usa.com
Business Contact
 V. Bailey
Title: Vice President
Phone: (865) 966-5856
Email: Carol.Bailey@tec-usa.com
Research Institution
N/A
Abstract

The residual stresses that result from coldworking a hole, or using an interference-fit fastener, can significantly increase the life of a structure subjected to fatigue loading. Manufacturing practices cause variability in the effectiveness of cold-worked holes and interference-fit fasteners. Furthermore, there currently are no 100% inspection techniques that can be used in situ on aircraft. Thus, the beneficial effects of resultant residual stresses are not accounted for in the structural analysis used for aircraft inspection intervals. TEC proposes to use advanced x-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques and instrumentation to measure residual stresses at and around cold-worked holes and interference-fit fasteners. Measurements parameters will be developed to subsequently allow quick in situ inspections of aircraft. Validation of the parameters will be performed on standard samples with cold-worked holes. Residual stress data will be reviewed by VEXTEC to propose a life prediction methodology. A conceptualization of a health assessment system will be prepared. Development of the health assessment system would occur in a phase II activity.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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