Abstract: Based on the modified computational model for the hole-drilling method to measure residual stresses, a new formula, considering the work-hardening layer, was developed to estimate the residual stress distribution by the relaxed strain.As an example, a 304 stainless steel specimen was submitted to a single uniform tension force, and the initial stress in the specimen was regarded as the residual stress.The relaxed strains were determined during hole drilling, and the residual stresses were introduced by two ways, in which the work-hardening layer was ignored and considered respectively.Using the relaxed strains published previously, the residual stresses in a bent 16MnR steel specimen were adopted by the same two ways as well.The accuracy of the two ways was presented by comparing the calculated residual stresses with the actual residual stresses, i.e., the given initial stresses.Furthermore, the welding residual stresses were measured in a rear axle of the vehicle.The results indicate that the work-hardening layer has an obvious influence on distribution of the residual stress, and the modified computational model is logical and feasible.