An Experiment Using Neutron Diffraction to Investigate Residual Strain Distribution in a Hot Isostatic Pressed (HIPPED) Target Plate

A quantitative understanding of the residual stress distribution within a HIPPED target plate of tungsten clad in tantalum for the ISIS Target Station 1 (TS1) was deemed to be essential. The Engin-X instrument of the ISIS facility was therefore employed as it has the capability to carry out a non-destructive experimental investigation with neutron diffraction method for residual stress measurement. Residual strain distributions within the HIPPED target plate were revealed quantitatively for the first time. For instance a residual strain range of from +100 to -500 microstrain within Tungsten and a strain range of from -500 to +450 microstrain within Tantalum clad can be seen from the in-plane strain distribution (along X direction in this case). Clear boundaries between these two materials were obtained. By utilizing such experimental results, new areas, such as optimized design, manufacture and use of the target plate could be exploited further in future. This paper will report the details of the experimental investigation and its findings.