Stress Concentration Charts

The stress concentration factor ( amplifying the average stress ( ) determines the maximum stress ( ): ) on a part by

The magnitude of the stress concentration factor depends on the type of loading (axial, torsion or bending), the type of stress concentration (fillet or hole), and the actual dimensions. Therefore, charts are used to determine . The complete list of charts are given in the textbook, but a sample for each type of loading is shown below: 1. For axial loading on a plate with a hole, it is observed that the smaller the diameter, the larger the stress concentration. In this instance, the largest value of is 3. This can be very significant for designs, since the stress can be 3 times more near the hole than anywhere else on the part. 2. For torsion on a stepped shaft, it is observed that the smaller the radius, the larger the stress concentration. In this case, an infinite is possible for a radius of 0. Therefore, it is good design practice to avoid sharp corners! 3. Likewise, for bending on a beam with a fillet, a larger radius is also preferred.

Dr. Edward Bednarz Wilkes University

Axial Loading on a Plate with a Hole

Torsion on a Stepped Shaft

Dr. Edward Bednarz Wilkes University

Bending on a Beam with a Fillet

Dr. Edward Bednarz Wilkes University