Numerical Simulation of Machining Distortion of Residually Stressed Aircraft Aluminum Components

The presence of residual stress in aircraft aluminum components can give rise to distortion after machining. Excessive distortion may result in the rejection of a part or the need for costly and time-consuming rework prior to placement in service. The purpose of this research was to develop a methodology for the prediction of machining-induced distortions of residually stressed aircraft aluminum components. Numerical simulation results show that the magnitude of machining distortion is strongly related to the square root of Stain Energy Density W or Stress Range σ . The experimental results demonstrate good agreement with the predicted machining distortions of 7075T73 bulkheads. It included that the original residual stress in the blocks of aircraft aluminum component is one of key factors to cause machining distortion.