Principles of Almen Strip Selection

Author:  Prof. Dr. David Kirk, Coventry University, U.K.
Source:  The Shot Peener magazine, Vol 27, Issue 1, Winter 2013
Doc ID:  2013011
Year of Publication:  2013
Abstract:  
INTRODUCTION: The guiding principles for Almen strip selection are thickness, variability and shape. Thickness selection, N, A or C is a normally matter for users rather than shot peeners. Thickness is the most important factor, because it is directly connected to the users’ peening intensity requirement. As a general rule, the greater the required peening intensity the thicker will be the most appropriate Almen strip. Every Almen strip has some variability – in spite of having to meet specification requirements. The tighter the specification the greater will be the cost incurred in satisfying those requirements. It follows that critical components (for which shot peening generates a large added value) will justify the use of higher quality Almen strips than non-critical components. Almen strips are normally rectangular and are available in both standard size and as ‘mini-strips’. Circular ‘strips’ are also available for the continuous generation of peening intensity curves.