Residual stress interaction against mechanical loading during the manufacturing process of an assault rifle component

This paper presents results obtained on the harmful effect that a lamination process can cause in AISI 1018 steel during the manufacturing process of spring bed components in fire guns. The sequel presented by the induction of a residual stress field is analyzed as well. It has been established that the consequences produced by the residual stresses, could be minimized either by changing the geometric configuration of the component, or changing the manufacturing process, or regeneration of the microstructure of the material by heat treatment. This work analyzes the effects that consistently become apparent by the regeneration of the microstructure of the material, such as; level of the residual stress field, possible fracture and micro-structural changes. This article evaluates both the longitudinal and transverse residual stress that takes place during the punching process of the spring bed made of AISI 1018 steel. The Crack Compliance Method (CCM) for measurement the residual stress field was applied. Additionally, it is applied a micro-structural analysis of the component. A comparison between experimental results of grain size is shown. From this study it is possible to validate the correct behavior of the mechanical component and certify the expected useful life.