FRACTURE TO INSPECT FOR DEFECTS IN A WELD
The Fracture Test and Nick Break Test determine a weld’s quality. It involves breaking open the weld length-wise and visually inspecting the exposed weld interior for internal imperfections such as lack of sidewall fusion, inter-run fusion, and porosity.
The Fracture test, also known as Fillet Weld Break Test, is a destructive testing process for examining root penetration. While the macro-etch test provides the penetration depth of the specimen in a given area, the fillet weld break test looks at the root penetration for the entirety of the specimen. The test includes the potential failure points of the weld which are the stop and restart of the weld.
The nick break is commonly used in API Standard 1104 for welding procedure qualification and welder performance qualification. Our expert testing team will notch on each side of the specimen at the centre of the weld metal. The nick break specimen will be fractured open, and the fracture surface is then examined for weld defects.
To perform a nick break test, our expert testing team will partially cut through 2-3mm in depth into the weld. Two steel blocks will be place between the weld specimen and our testing team will fracture it with a single hammer to inspect the inner side of the weld.
Once fractured, the fracture surface is then examined for slag inclusions, cracks, porosity, incomplete joint penetration, and incomplete fusion.
The test can be carried out for both butt welds and fillet welds test coupons.
Application of Nick Break Test
Useful for determining the internal quality of the weld metal
Able to provide quantitative information on weld quality
Reveal a clear view of the weld's internal structure
Determine the internal Quality of the weld metal
Provide quantitative information on weld quality
Reveal a clear view of the weld’s internal s tructure
Common Test Methods (To be written by testing team)
API 1104
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Many tests detect defects not visible to the naked eye. Our expert testing team will ensure we provide a detailed inspection for your nick break test on your welding specimen in our state-of-the-lab laboratory.
For more information on our nick break test, contact us or send us an enquiry today.
