The effect of shot peening and anodizing on the fatigue life of highstrength aluminum alloys

High-strength aluminum alloys (AA) are extensively used for landing gears given their
low density compared to steel. All AA parts undergo special processes after
machining such as shot peening and anodizing. Because the impact of the special
processes on the fatigue properties of the material is not very well known,
conservative security factors are used leading to an increase in the wall thickness of
the parts and, thus, weight increase. The objective of this project is to understand, at
the material level, the impact of special processes on the fatigue life of high strength
aluminum alloys by conducting fatigue testing, observations and analysis of the
fracture surfaces of fatigue specimens. as well near surface mechanical and
microstructure characterization. This project will help better understand the effect of
process parameters on the fatigue life of the components and will ultimately lead to
design optimization of landing gear parts.

Faculty Supervisor:

Richard Chromik

Student:

Partner:

Héroux Devtek Inc

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

McGill University

Program: