Self-consistent stress relaxation model

A simple stoichastic model of logarithmic creep is considered and a modified form for calculating activation energies is derived for Cu and Ni. Self-consistent stress relaxation testing is shown to correspond to continuous strain hardening during stress relaxation. It is shown that geometrical dimensions of specimens and spring constant (load cell) of the test apparatus must be taken into account for accurate calculations of relaxation rate and, hence, activation energy. 14 ref.--J.C.J.