Letting the problem define the solution: Evolution of the neutron residual stress instrument HIDRA

The use of neuron diffraction enables nondestructive mapping of residual stresses in relatively large-scale objects with strain resolution on the order of tens of microstrain and spatial resolution on the order of mm. Beginning in the 1980s to the present day, instrument scientists have endeavored to understand and limit sources of potential error, and to provide materials scientists and engineers with a characterization tool that provides reliable results across a large spectrum of materials. In this talk I will discuss the continuing evolution of residual stress mapping at Oak Ridge’s High Flux Isotope Reactor, in particular looking at the challenges created by the complex needs of this User community, the status of current hardware and software solutions at the HIDRA beamline, and ongoing development to increase access and useability.