Abrasive Blasting, Shot Peening & Surface Prep calculator

Shot Peening Intensity Window and Saturation Check

Evaluate a shot-peening intensity result with the four values that drive an immediate process decision: saturation intensity, intensity at twice the saturation exposure time, specified minimum and specified maximum. The calculator reports window position, lower and upper margins and the double-time increase used to screen saturation behavior. Repeatability sigma is held at a documented baseline so the operator is not confronted with a statistical field during a routine check. This tool organizes evidence; it does not fit the saturation curve, choose exposure time or replace the applicable drawing, procedure and SAE-controlled evaluation method.

What this calculator does

  • Evaluate the measured saturation intensity against both specification limits and the T-to-2T saturation criterion while keeping coverage as a separate control.
  • Use it for setup verification, intensity-window review, repeatability improvement, reviewing whether a completed saturation-curve result is centered inside the specified intensity window..
  • Evaluate the measured saturation intensity against both specification limits and the T-to-2T saturation criterion while keeping coverage as a separate control.

Formula used

  • The entered saturation intensity is checked against the specification window and the double-time rise criterion.
  • Fixed secondary assumptions compiled into this release: Observed intensity standard deviation: 0.0004 in A.

Inputs explained

  • Intensity at saturation time T: Almen arc height at the selected saturation time using the applicable strip and procedure.
  • Intensity at double time 2T: Almen arc height at twice the selected exposure time.
  • Specified minimum intensity: Lower approved intensity limit for the correct strip designation.
  • Specified maximum intensity: Upper approved intensity limit for the correct strip designation.

How to use the result

  • Best suited to setup verification, intensity-window review, repeatability improvement, reviewing whether a completed saturation-curve result is centered inside the specified intensity window..
  • The four-input result is conditional on the disclosed fixed assumptions; use a detailed engineering model when they are not representative. Not a saturation-curve fitting engine. Not a coverage determination. The governing customer, drawing, process, or aerospace specification controls acceptance. The calculator does not fit the saturation curve or validate strip quality, fixture orientation, coverage or residual stress.

Common questions

  • Does this create a saturation curve? No. It checks supplied T and 2T values. Curve construction and point selection must follow the applicable procedure. The fixed secondary assumptions are listed on this page and in the downloadable workbook so the four-input result remains auditable.
  • Why check both limits? A result can be above the minimum and still exceed the approved maximum or have too little upper-side margin. The fixed secondary assumptions are listed on this page and in the downloadable workbook so the four-input result remains auditable.
  • Is the 10% result enough to release production? No. Strip procedure, full specification compliance, machine settings, media control, coverage, and required records still apply. The fixed secondary assumptions are listed on this page and in the downloadable workbook so the four-input result remains auditable.
  • Can different strip types be converted? Do not assume interchangeability. Use the strip designation and conversion rules authorized by the governing specification. The fixed secondary assumptions are listed on this page and in the downloadable workbook so the four-input result remains auditable.
  • Does this calculator determine saturation time? No. Enter results from a properly constructed and fitted saturation curve. The tool evaluates the reported saturation intensity and double-time behavior against the entered limits. Curve fitting, strip selection, exposure sequence and the applicable definition of saturation remain controlled by the governing peening specification and procedure.

Last reviewed 2026-08-25.