Inspection method · MECH
Mechanical testing
Mechanical tests prove the properties that certificates state: strength, ductility and toughness.
01How it works
Tensile tests measure yield strength, tensile strength, elongation and reduction of area on machined specimens. Charpy impact tests measure absorbed energy at a specified temperature, indicating toughness. Bend tests check ductility and soundness of welds. Macro and micro examination reveal weld profile, fusion and microstructure.
Specimen location and orientation (for example transverse to the weld, at a defined depth below surface) significantly affect results and must follow the standard.
02Typical industrial applications
- Material certificate verification
- Welding procedure qualification
- Welder qualification bend tests
- Production test coupons
- Forgings and castings acceptance
- Failure investigation
03Benefits and what it detects
- Direct measurement of design properties
- Required by most codes
- Objective and quantitative
- Independent verification possible
04Limitations
- Destructive and requires specimens
- Results depend on sampling location
- Requires accredited laboratory for credibility
- Time for specimen preparation
05Specifying and reviewing the method
Specify test standard, specimen type, location, orientation, test temperature for impact tests and acceptance values. Common references are ISO 6892-1 (tensile) and ISO 148-1 (Charpy).
Other references: ISO 6892-1, ISO 148-1, ISO 5173 (bend tests of welds), ISO 17639 (macro and micro examination of welds)