ASTM E190 Guided Bend Test for Ductility of Welds

Get Certified ASTM E190 Testing for Reliable Fusion Weld Evaluation

A fusion weld must have enough ductility to bend without forming unwanted discontinuities. Thus, guided bend tests can provide information on weld quality and the performance of welded joints. ASTM E190 provides a standard bending test for welded specimens. These results are used for Welding Procedure Qualification, Welder Performance Verification, Quality Control, and Material comparison.

• Assesses the ductility of fusion welds.
• Bends welded samples using a guided bending process.
• Checks the weld and surrounding area after bending.
• Helps identify cracks and other discontinuities.
• Facilitates assessment of the quality of welds.
• Supports checking welding processes.
• Assists in welding quality control.

What are the Uses of ASTM E190 Testing?

ASTM E190 testing is used by laboratories for assessing the ductility and soundness of fusion welds. The results are then used by engineers to determine whether the welded joints can withstand the bending deformation required. This standard-

• Measures the ductility of fusion welds.
• Identifies cracks and breaks when bending.
• Aids welding Procedure Qualification.
• Assists in the assessment of welder performance.
• Assists in the quality control of welds.
• Assists with comparison of welding conditions.
• Provides data on the performance of welded joints.

Which materials can be tested under ASTM E190?

ASTM E190 is applicable to fusion welds in metallic materials that can be made into an acceptable guided-bend specimen. Depending on the welding procedure and requirements, the applicable material, weld type, specimen orientation, and dimensions will vary. Before preparing the test specimens, laboratories should determine the material to be welded and the specimen orientation for the test.

Why is ASTM E190 Important?

ASTM E190 is a standard test for ductility of fusion welds by controlled bending. The test can detect discontinuities that are not evident in simpler visual tests. Engineers can use the results to determine whether a welded joint will withstand bending deformation and to support welding procedure Qualification and Quality Control.

ASTM E190 Testing Process and Data Collection

Analysts choose typical welded joints and decide on the specimen orientation. Technicians then cut and prepare the specimens to the required dimensions. The operator then places the specimen in the guided-bend fixture and exerts controlled force around the designated former. The specimen is bent to the necessary deformation. Lastly, technicians inspect the bent specimen for cracks and other discontinuities. Analysts document observations and compare them to the acceptance requirements.

Common Challenges and Troubleshooting

To get accurate ASTM E190 results, the specimen must be oriented correctly, sized correctly, surface prepared correctly, and the fixtures aligned correctly. Specimen positioning can affect the bending response and test results. Technicians should check dimensions of the specimen and the alignment of the fixture prior to testing. Surface examination after bending is also useful for consistently detecting cracks and discontinuities.

• The report records the observed cracks, tears, and other discontinuities on the bent specimen and uses these observations to evaluate the weld condition.
• The laboratory reports the relevant measurement units, with specimen dimensions generally reported in mm or inches and bending force, when measured or recorded, reported in N or kN.
• The analyst records the specimen orientation, material, weld type, and applicable test conditions to provide the context needed to interpret the results.
• The report documents the final bend-test observations and evaluates the weld ductility based on the type, location, and extent of discontinuities observed after bending.

Link to ASTM E190