Beginnings and Early Development of Thermoelastic Stress Analysis

Abstract:  Starting with Gough's first recorded observation of the thermoelastic effect in 1803, through to the 1990s, the principal steps in the evolution of the thermoelastic stress analysis (TSA) technique are identified and reviewed. The coverage includes the contributions of Weber, who first described the effect in metals, Kelvin who provided the classical theoretical treatment, Turner and Coker who saw the potential of the effect as the basis of a stress analysis technique, Belgen who demonstrated the value of infrared technology in this context and Mountain and Weber whose foresight and skills resulted in the first commercially available equipment (SPATE) for TSA. Comments on the personal qualities and attributes of those involved are also included.