Thermal Stress

What Does Thermal Stress Mean?

Thermal stress refers to the presence of a deformity or internal redistribution of forces within an object due to an external temperature gradient or significant temperature variation. A thermal stress distribution may or may not be uniform, depending on the nature of the loading condition. Thermal stress can have a significant impact on a material's strength and stability, and may cause cracks or breaks.

Corrosionpedia Explains Thermal Stress

Thermal stress is primarily observed in metallic structures that have undergone a significant increase or decrease in body temperature without having an adequate physical space to permit expansion and contraction.

Periodic or regular thermal stress conditions lead to increased wear and tear, degradation and eventual failure.