Thermal Stress
Definition
Stress that develops in a material when thermal expansion or contraction is constrained. Calculated as σ = E × α × ΔT, where E is elastic modulus, α is CTE, and ΔT is temperature change. Can cause yielding or buckling.
Practical Note
A fully constrained steel member with ΔT = 100°C develops stress ≈ 240 MPa (near yield). Piping systems use expansion loops, bellows, or slip joints to relieve thermal stress.
Related Calculators
Calculate dimensional changes due to temperature variation using linear thermal expansion. Includes thermal stress calculation for constrained members and material CTE database.
Calculate stress, strain, and elastic modulus from basic inputs. Includes true stress/strain conversion, Poisson's ratio effects, and interactive stress-strain curve visualization.