ASTM B646

ASTM B646 – Standard Practice for Fracture Toughness Testing of Aluminum Alloys

Description:

Significance and Use

5.1 This practice is provided to develop and maintain uniformity in practices for the evaluation of the toughness of aluminum alloys, particularly with regard to supplier qualification, quality assurance, and material release to specifications.

5.2 It is emphasized that the use of these procedures will not alter the validity of data determined with specific test methods, but provides guidance in the interpretation of test results (valid or invalid) and guidance in the selection of a reasonable test procedure in those instances where no standard exists today.

Scope

1.1 Fracture toughness is a key property for a number of aluminum alloys utilized in aerospace and process industries. Fracture toughness testing is often required for supplier qualification, quality control, and material release purposes. The purpose of this practice is to provide uniform test procedures for the industry, pointing out which current standards are utilized in specific cases, and providing guidelines where no standards exist. This practice provides guidance for testing (a) sheet and other products having a specified thickness less than 6.35 mm (0.250 in.), (b) intermediate thicknesses of plate, forgings, and extrusions that are too thin for valid plane-strain fracture toughness testing but too thick for treatment as sheet, such as products having a specified thickness greater than or equal to 6.35 mm (0.250 in.) but less than 25 to 50 mm (1 to 2 in.), depending on toughness level, and (c) relatively thick products where Test Method E399 is applicable.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in inch-pound units given in parenthesis are provided for information purposes only.