The stress distributions in shouldered shafts under axisymmetric loading

Abstract

The stress distributions in shouldered shafts in tension and in torsion were calculated by the finite element method (FEM) for notch radii that are of technical interest. The calculated stress concentration factors Kt and relative stress gradients normal to the surface were compared with values given in a well-known handbook used by many designers, and with literature, respectively. From this comparison it appears that: –Kt values for a shouldered shaft in tension are up to 30 percent higher than the values given in mentioned handbook; –the relative stress gradients can, within the range of notch radii r that was investigated, be approximated by 2/r for the tension case and 1/r for the case of torsion. Publication of reliable results from FEM calculations of stress concentrations are recommended in order to improve or extend the usability of the design data which are now available. © 1991, Institution of Mechanical Engineers. All rights reserved.