Weld seam examination. Testing of tensile strength, yield strength and ductility.
In the context of research work, weld joints were characterized for their mechanical properties in the base material, transition zone, heat-affected zone, and weld seam. Traditionally, the Vickers hardness test was used to measure local hardnesses with measurement points arranged in lines along the weld joint.
The Imprint Test according to DIN SPEC 4864 determines
- the comparative tensile strength RIm,
- comparative yield strength RIp0.2,
- strain hardening exponent n,
- ductility D.
These values describe the mechanical properties of the weld joint better than simple hardness values and help optimize the welding process.