This report discusses the results of a research program on the fatigue behavior of sound weldments in thick aluminum alloys. The specimens of alloy 5083-0 were provided by three aluminum companies and included plain plates@ longitudinally welded plates and tranversely welded plates. Axial fatigue tests were conducted on 54 specimens. The results are shown in S-N diagrams. In addition@ a supplemental test program was conducted. This program included the study of residual stresses@ weld geometry@ and weld quality. Conclusions reached from the study are: 1. Orientation of the weld in the direction of stress applications is beneficial to fatigue strength of a joint. 2. The angle at the toe of the weld reinforcement is the most critical factor in the determination of the fatigue life of an as-welded transverse joint. 3. The actual maximum stress at the weld toe@ determined from the nominal stress and stress concentration factor@ appears to give a much better indication of expected fatigue life. 4. The fatigue lives of one inch thick welded plates of 5083-0 are significantly lower than those obtained for thin welded plates
BULLETIN 199-1974 history
1974BULLETIN 199-1974 FATIGUE BEHAVIOR OF ALUMINUM ALLOY 5083 BUTT WELDS