Thermal Shock

1) The creation of a steep temperature gradient and accompanying high stress within a structure. 2) A test to determine the ability of a material to withstand heat and cold by subjecting it to rapid and wide changes in temperature. Note: a rapid temperature increase of the material can usually be avoided by proper warm-up prior to annealing. 3) A term used in metal working coolant/oil make-up procedures where cold make-up liquid would drastically alter the temperature of the coolant/oil and temporarily change the operating conditions until the body of the fluid’s temperature returns to its normal operating level.