M. A. James, J. D. Watton, R. J. Bucci, Alcoa, Inc., Alcoa Center, PA; D. L. Ball, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company, Fort Worth, TX; J. B. Castle, The Boeing Company, Saint Louis, MO
For more than a decade, the authors’ companies have been advancing their respective visions for residual stress and machining distortion management in large, three-dimensional components. During that time, substantial progress has been made towards solving a myriad of complex technical challenges. Recently, under the Metals Affordability Initiative, the Air Force provided opportunity for stakeholder companies to join forces in an integrated planning effort to outline a technology roadmap. The process affirmed that more than ever, knowledge of residual stress influences on design/manufacturing processes is essential to both assure conservatism and maximize performance. Furthermore, expanded supply chain integration is necessary to realize the full range of end-product benefits. This presentation summarizes the ongoing effort to develop the roadmap and execute the vision.