Thermal stability of 316

[baxterl]

Hi,

We have a machined 316 cup, 3" diam x 0.5" long with 0.08" walls. We would like it to be dimensionally stable in the 0-60 degC range (except for expected thermal expansion).

We get about 0.0002" movement in the center (not temperature expansion, but an oil-can distortion of the diaphragm)with this temperature excursion. Is this expected? Does it result from machining stress concentration? Will annealing help? Will a material change help?

...L

 

[metengr]

baxterl;
What is the raw stock product form (including heat treatment - solution annealed or other) that you started with prior to machining the cup?

 

[EdStainless]

Annealing will not help. The stresses due to differential cooing from anneal will be even worse.
Can you re-size the part?
Take the part and cycle it, use a range larger than your service range, say -40 to 100C. Cycle it a few times. at least you will achive stability.
If you can re-size it then do so and cycle a few more times.


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