ASTM E436-03

This test method can be used to determine the appearance of propagating fractures in plain carbon or low-alloy pipe steels (yield strengths less than 825 MPa or 120 000 psi) over the temperature range where the fracture mode changes from brittle (cleavage or flat) to ductile (shear or oblique).

This test method can serve the following purposes:

3.2.1 For research and development, to study the effect of metallurgical variables such as composition or heat treatment, or of fabricating operations such as welding or forming on the mode of fracture propagation.

3.2.2 For evaluation of materials for service to indicate the suitability of a material for specific applications by indicating fracture propagation behavior at the service temperature(s).

3.2.3 For information or specification purposes, to provide a manufacturing quality control only when suitable correlations have been established with service behavior.

1.1 This test method covers drop-weight tear tests (DWTT) on ferritic steels with thicknesses between 3.18 and 19.1 mm (0.125 and 0.750 in.).

1.2 The values stated in SI (metric) units are to be regarded as the standard.

1.3 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.