1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the resistance to fracture of metallic materials under Mode I loading at static rates using any of the following notched and precracked specimens: the middle-cracked tension M(T) specimen, the compact tension C(T) specimen, or the crack-line-wedge-loaded C(W) specimen. A K-R curve is a continuous record of toughness development (resistance to crack extension) in terms of K R plotted against crack extension in the specimen as a crack is driven under an increasing stress intensity factor, K.

1.2 Materials that can be tested for K-R curve development are not limited by strength, thickness, or toughness, so long as specimens are of sufficient size to remain predominantly elastic to the effective crack extension value of interest.

1.3 Specimens of standard proportions are required, but size is variable, to be adjusted for yield strength and toughness of the materials.

1.4 Only three of the many possible specimen types that could be used to develop K-R curves are covered in this method.

1.5 The test is applicable to conditions where a material exhibits slow, stable crack extension under increasing crack driving force, which may exist in relatively tough materials under plane stress crack tip conditions.

1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

2. Referenced Documents (purchase separately) The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.

ASTM Standards

E4 Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines

E399 Test Method for Linear-Elastic Plane-Strain Fracture Toughness K Ic of Metallic Materials

E1823 Terminology Relating to Fatigue and Fracture Testing

Other Document

Keywords

effective crack extension; fracture mechanics; fracture resistance; fracture toughness; K R ; K-R curve; linear elastic; plane stress; plastic zone; standard test method; stress intensity factor;

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 77.040.10 (Mechanical testing of metals)

DOI: 10.1520/E0561-05E01

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