A Review of Theoretical and Experimental Research on Various Autofrettage Processes

Autofrettage is a metal forming technique widely incorporated for strengthening the thick-walled cylindrical and spherical pressure vessels. The technique is based on the principle of initially subjecting the cylindrical or spherical vessel to partial plastic deformation and then unloading it; as a result of which compressive residual stresses are set up. On the basis of the type of the forming load, autofrettage can be classified into hydraulic, swage, explosive, thermal, and rotational. Considerable research studies have been carried out on autofrettage with a variety of theoretical models and experimental methods. This paper presents an extensive review of various types of autofrettage processes. A wide range of theoretical models and experimental studies are described. Optimization of an autofrettage process is also discussed. Based on the review, some challenging issues and key areas for future research are identified.