Abstract
The cleavage fracture toughness of several reactor pressure vessel (RPV) steels was measured by the ASTM E 1921 master curve method using small bend (pre-cracked Charpy V-notched) specimens. The applicability of the method was experimentally evaluated by using different types of specimens and materials. Micro-structural and fracto-graphical observations were performed on cleavage fracture surfaces and polished-and-etched specimens as well. The measured cleavage fracture toughness was strongly related to the distance from the crack tip to the cleavage initiation site, cleavage initiation distance (CID), which was slightly beyond the local peak stress region. Based on the microscopic observations, the cleavage initiation site was not influenced by the grain size of the material. Metallurgical particles, such as inclusions and/or carbides, may play an important role in the cleavage fracture of low alloy RPV steels in the transition range.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
