ASTM E190, AWS B4.0, and API 5L cover requirements for guided
bend testing on welded materials. The guided bend test on welds provides a quality control check that helps determine the ductility of the weld and effectiveness of the weld process. During the bend test, the material containing the weld is loaded at its center point while supported at the ends. It is then bent 180°. The tension (lower) side of the specimen is visually inspected for cracks or defects. These test standards specify the specimens required for the bend test, as well as the necessary equipment and procedures for performing the test.
We suggest using a dual space DX or HDX load frame with a guided bend fixture that is designed specifically to meet the bend testing demands on welds and can be adjusted to accommodate different specimen thicknesses. The dual space frame allows the bend test to be performed in the lower compression test space while any tensile testing requirements can be carried out in the upper tensile test space.
To round out the complete bend solution, we recommend using a materials testing software package that includes bend applications - offering simple test setup and ease of operation when running a 3-point bend test. The software will automatically generate flexure calculation results and test curves. Advanced servo control electronics provide responsive test control and accurate data collection. Digital calipers can also be interfaced directly to the software for quick, push-button input of crack measurements.