Weld, Destructive Test

Definition

A Weld Destructive Test involves methods to determine the existence and extent of defects and discontinuities in welds which do affect the capabilities of the weld and require repairs after testing.

Purpose

The purpose of destructive weld testing is to assess the mechanical properties and performance of welds by subjecting them to conditions that cause failure. This helps to identify potential weaknesses and ensure the welds meet the required standards.

Examples of Use

• Tensile Testing: Pulling a welded specimen until it breaks to measure its tensile strength.
• Bend Testing: Bending a welded specimen to assess its ductility and the quality of the weld.
• Fracture Testing: Evaluating the behavior of welds under controlled crack growth conditions.

Related Terms

• Non-Destructive Testing (NDT): Methods that assess weld quality without causing damage, such as ultrasonic testing and radiography.
• Weld Inspection: The process of evaluating welds to ensure they meet specified quality standards.
• Weld Certification: A process by which a welder’s ability to produce sound welds is verified through testing.

Notes

Destructive testing is often used for qualification and certification of welding procedures and welders. It provides valuable data on the mechanical properties and potential failure modes of welds.