shot peening
Shot Peening refers to a process where metal surfaces are bombarded with small spherical media to induce compressive stresses, enhancing the metal's fatigue resistance and durability. This method improves the surface strength without altering the metal's overall dimensions.
Key Features:
- Surface Bombardment: very small spheres (steel, glass, or ceramic) are propelled rapidly against the surface of the metal.
- Formation of Compressive Stresses: This produces compressive stresses that increase resistance to fatigue.
- Improvement in Surface Finish: The operation improves the surface texture and removes slight imperfections.
The prime characteristic of shot peening increases the fatigue life and strength of metallic parts under cyclic loads. It is extensively used in aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing industries with more advanced automated shot peening systems that offer increased precision and consistency of surface treatment.