Evaluation of three-dimensional stresses in shrink-fit problems by scattered-light photoelasticity

Stresses caused by shrink fits are commonly evaluated by using Lame's solution or by other analytical methods in which it is assumed that the radial stresses on the surface of contact are distributed uniformly, or in some stepwise manner, and that friction forces between the bodies are zero. These assumptions were not necessary in the experimental problem solved. Heretofore, no experimental techniques have been available to check the existing theories on a three-dimensional basis. The stresses which result when a short, hollow, thick-walled cylinder is shrunk over a shaft which is a solid shaft or a thick-walled, hollow shaft were determined. Equipment and techniques using scattered-light three-dimensional photoelasticity with a laser light source were developed and applied.