bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inelastic Buckling of ASTM Standard E 9 Compression Specimens
Authors: Papirno R
Published: February 2009

A tutorial exposition is given of methods for calculating the inelastic buckling stress of specimens tested in accordance with ASTM Standard E 9 on Compression Testing of Metallic Materials at Room Temperature. The recommended round specimen sizes will buckle inelastically for all non-brittle metals, but ASTM E 9 refers only to Euler elastic buckling. An inelastic buckling relation based upon the tangent modulus is given, and methods of calculating the inelastic buckling stress are demonstrated.
Overview of the Workshop for Hot Box Operators
Authors: Van Geem MG
Published: February 2009

The following five papers were presented at a Workshop for Hot Box Operators sponsored by ASTM Committee C-16 on Thermal Insulation and the Building Thermal Envelope Coordinating Council (BTECC) Research Coordinating Committee (RCC) on Heat and Mass Transfer. The Workshop was held with 31 in attendance in Colorado Springs, Colorado, on 28–29 March 1985, following the regular spring seminannual meeting of Committee C-16-Attendees represented 14 companies and organizations that maintain calibrated hot boxes (ASTM C 976) or guarded hot boxes (ASTM C 236).
Hot Box Operating Techniques and Procedures: A Survey
Authors: Miller RG
Published: February 2009

A questionnaire dealing with operating techniques and procedures of guarded and calibrated hot boxes was mailed to 14 hot box operators in the United States and Canada. Questions pertaining to testing capabilities, instrumentation, calibration specimens, steady-state criteria, etc., were asked. Responses from the 13 laboratories returning the survey are summarized in the paper. This information should be of interest to hot box operators, as well as prove helpful in future revisions of the guarded and calibrated hot box test methods.
Calibration of the NBS Calibrated Hot Box
Authors: Zarr RR , Burch DM , Faison TK , Arnold CE , O'Connell ME
Published: February 2009

A series of calibration tests were conducted in the laboratory in order to determine the overall experimental error and uncertainty for the NBS calibrated hot box. For these tests, 10 cm (4 in.) and 20 cm (8 in.) thick polystyrene wall specimens having independently measured thermal resistances were installed in a support frame and sandwiched between the metering and climatic chambers. The metering chamber was operated at a typical indoor condition for a residence, while the climatic chamber was operated at selected steady outdoor winter conditions. For each of the tests, an energy balance was performed on the metering chamber. The heat transfer that flanks the wall specimen and passes through the support frame was predicted using a finite-difference model. The other heat losses and gains for the energy balance were measured. The residual energy loss for the energy balance of the metering chamber represents the overall experimental error and uncertainty.

The maximum observed residual energy loss for all of the calibration tests without the metering chamber cooling coil operated was 1.9 W. This value occurred when the 10 cm (4 in.) wall specimen was exposed to a 23 K (41°F) temperature difference. This value, however, comprised only 1.8% of the net energy input to the metering chamber.
Equivalent Crack Lengths in Thin Sheet Materials Subjected to Tensile Loads
Authors: Huculak P
Published: February 2009

The elastic compliance is determined for the configuration of the line slot terminated by circular holes and for the elliptical cut-out in a finite-width sheet specimen loaded in tension. Comparisons are then made with real cracks to ascertain the extent of equivalence with respect to strain energy release rates and compliance for the two configurations selected.
A Model for Predicting Fracture Toughness of a Cementitious Particulate Composite Molded under Impact Pressure
Authors: Crockford WW , Little DN
Published: February 2009

The form of a model relating two influential compositional factors of a material to fracture toughness is identified. A similar, simpler form is proposed for regression analyses. Demonstration of the utility of the model is accomplished using experimental results from testing of a portland cement stabilized fine grained soil.
A Survey of Grade Verification Methods for Steel Plants
Authors: Henry EB , Patsey JA
Published: February 2009

A perennial problem in steel producing and fabricating plants is the maintenance of the identities of each of the many varieties of steel produced daily. There are more claims entered because of wrong-grade or mixed-steel shipments than for any other reason. Usually, these claims are not the result of mixes between similar grades but between grades that differ significantly in chemical composition and/or physical properties. This paper reviews the conventional practices employed in steel plants to avoid mixes, describes the equipment and techniques used to verify steel grade, and outlines a typical grade-tracking system. It discusses state-of-the-art technology in grade verification and postulates a system for automatically tracking steel grade through a steel producing plant.
Large-Scale Metals Identification and Sorting Using Instrumented Techniques
Authors: Riley WD , Brown RD , Larrain JM
Published: February 2009

The U.S. Bureau of Mines is studying methods for the identification of scrap metals that will lead to better segregation, conservation of strategic materials, and utilization of this existing secondary reserve. A joint scrap segregation-marketing test is being conducted by the Bureau of Mines and the Defense Property Disposal Service at the Defense Property Disposal Office at Cherry Point, North Carolina. The purpose of the test is to determine the cost effectiveness of offering well-segregated metallic scrap fractions for sale.

Thus far, approximately 250 000 kg of aircraft scrap have been identified and sorted by a combination of conventional and instrumental techniques into 30 categories with better than 95% accuracy at a manual sorting rate averaging 93 kg/man-h. Techniques used in this study included fluorescent X-ray spectrography, thermoelectric response, optical spectroscopy, spark testing, magnet testing, and object recognition. The practical application of these techniques in a large-scale test is described.
Experience with a Digitized Instrumented Impact Testing System
Authors: Mark-Markowitch M , Rosenthal Y , Adam G
Published: February 2009

This paper describes a simple and inexpensive way of upgrading an analog instrumented impact testing machine by digitizing its output and connecting it to a computer. The instrumentation, calibration, and set-up procedures as well as a software package for data acquisition and analysis, which was locally developed, are described. Some typical results of impact tests are given, and the improvement in the overall performance of the digital setup is demonstrated.
Prediction of Heat Release Rates of Surface Materials in Large-Scale Fire Tests Based on Cone Calorimeter Results
Authors: Wickström U , Göransson U
Published: February 2009

A simple theory is suggested for the important fire engineering problem of predicting large-scale test fires of surface materials based on information obtained from small-scale tests. Ignition time and heat release rate history obtained from cone calorimeter tests are input to a straightforward numerical model that predicts the heat release rate history of a product when tested in the standardized large-scale room/corner test. A constant heat output rate of the ignition source, as suggested by NORDTEST, is, however, necessary; the original ASTM method prescribes varying output rates which makes the type of analysis suggested here impossible.

Predicted and measured large-scale heat release rate histories for nine products were compared. The agreement was considered reasonable.
Comparison of Severity of Exposure in ASTM E 119 and ISO 834 Fire Resistance Tests
Authors: Harmathy TZ , Sultan MA , MacLaurin JW
Published: February 2009

Using specimens similar to those described in the draft revision of ASTM E 119, tests were conducted in floor and wall fire test furnaces. The tests were designed to compare the practical consequences of following the ASTM E 119 and ISO 834 specifications for measuring and controlling the nominal furnace temperature. It has been found that in fire tests of shorter duration, perhaps up to 1.5 h, the ASTM test is slightly more severe than the ISO test. In longer tests the difference in severities is negligible. Some observations concerning the non-uniformity of heat absorption by the test specimen point to the importance of proper furnace design in the satisfactory performance of test furnaces.
Evaluation of Notch Tip Opening Displacement Using a Composite Crack Profile Approach
Authors: Pratap CR , Pandey RK
Published: February 2009

A composite crack profile model has been used to evaluate the notch tip opening displacement (NTOD) for blunt notches in single-edge-notched (SEN) tension and SEN bending geometries. For the small-scale yielding situation, the values of crack tip opening displacement (CTOD) as a function of the K/σys ratio are almost equal in the two geometries. The NTOD values obtained using the present method are, however, geometry dependent and are more representative of displacement at the notch tip than the values obtained in an earlier paper.
Load-Point Compliance of a Three-Point Loaded Cracked-Notched Beam
Authors: Baratta FI
Published: February 2009

Load-point compliances are determined for several three-point loaded notched-cracked beam configurations utilized by ASTM as standard test specimens. A method of accounting for the crack starter notch configuration as well as the crack itself is presented. Results from this analysis are compared with tabular data included in ASTM Test for JIc. A Measure of Fracture Toughness (E 813-81). Because load-point compliance is a sensitive indicator of crack growth and of general interest, two additional beam test configurations standardized by ASTM are examined: Test for Plane-Strain Fracture Toughness of Metallic Materials (E 399-83) and Test for Crack Strength of Slow Bend, Precracked Charpy Specimens of High-Strength Metallic Materials (E 812-81). These results are also compared with an available method that predicts compliance based on an idealized crack representing a crack starter notch. Results show, where accuracy is required, as specified in ASTM E 813, that the presence of the notch geometry and be considered.

A regression analysis was accomplished to provide convenient formulae that describe load-point compliance and inverse compliance for particular three-point loaded cracked-notched beams as specified in ASTM E 813, E 399, and E 812. These expressions should be useful for fracture testing including fatigue crack growth rate measurements.
An Experimental Technique for Determining a Measure of Structural Damping
Authors: Wren GG , Kinra VK
Published: February 2009

An experimental procedure for the determination of structural damping in a material specimen at low frequencies (<20 Hz) and low strain amplitudes (<10−5) is presented. The experimental apparatus entails a beam specimen supported under free-free boundary conditions and vibrated in first-mode flexural resonance. All experiments were carried out in vacuum at frequencies near 20 Hz, and data were automatically acquired using a system of electronic equipment. A measure of structural damping was obtained by reducing the acquired data using a linearized logarithmic decrement technique. Damping results are presented in the form ψ = Δ W/W, where ΔW is the energy dissipated during each loading cycle and W is the maximum stored energy.

Experimental results discussed concern the structural damping of the following specimens: 6061-T6 aluminum, 6061 (annealed) aluminum, and 0 and 90 deg orientation continuous fiber P55Gr/6061A1 (graphite/aluminum) metal matrix composite. Damping values were determined for strain amplitudes of 6 × 10−6 to 20 × 10−6 and displayed an experimental scatter of 5 to 10%. An experimental technique to quantify extraneous apparatus losses is proposed, which estimates these losses to be approximately 10% of the measured damping value.
A Review of Petroleum Coke Preparation Procedures
Authors: Engelke GH
Published: February 2009

Specific procedures and techniques are employed to maximize petroleum coke sample integrity in the laboratory. If sample integrity is not retained during preparation, the end results from the laboratory are of little value. All samples require reduction and division as a part of the preparation process. Moisture samples should be handled with extreme care even if this requires separate samples.
One-Dimensional Consolidation Under Linear Loading
Authors: Gangopadhyay CR , Bhattacharya U
Published: February 2009

A nonlinear theory of consolidation under linear loading is formulated for various load-increment ratios. Variable coefficients of permeability and volume decrease and constant coefficient of consolidation are assumed during consolidation. The results obtained for a very small load-increment ratio very closely follow those of Schiffman's linear loading theory. A hydraulic loading odometer having provisions for applying linear loading and multipoint pore-pressure measurement is developed. Laboratory linear loading tests on kaolin and Calcuttta silty clay under a load-increment ratio K of 0.25 indicate that the experimental pore pressures dissipate at a faster rate than predicted by both non-linear and Schiffman theories. Improved agreement between experiment and theories are observed for K = 4. A quasi-preconsolidation effect is observed during early stages of consolidation. The void ratio effective stress relationship based on base pore pressures and isochrones obtained during slow rate of linear loading tests very closely follows the curve determined conventionally.
Techniques for Determination of the Crystallographic Characteristics of Environmentally Induced Brittle Fractures
Authors: Meletis EI , Hochman RF
Published: February 2009

Five methods for determination of the crystallography of transgranular, environment-assisted fractures are described. The application of these methods is illustrated in order to obtain the macrocrystallography and microcrystallography of fractographic features.
Quantitative Determination of Metals in Oils by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry: Inorganic Standards in Acidified Emulsions
Authors: Arfelli W
Published: February 2009

Introducing the emulsion of an oil into the flame of an atomic absorption spectrophotometer, instead of introducing the solution of the oil or ash extract, may afford an advantage. A number of these “emulsification” procedures are summarized schematically.
The Quality of Runoff from Model Coal Piles
Authors: Stahl RG , Davis EM
Published: February 2009

Four different coals were tested under controlled laboratory conditions of simulated rainfall events over a 120-day period to determine some of the changes in the quality of the runoff. Illinois #6, Western Kentucky, Montana Nerco, and Central Texas lignite coal-pile runoffs were analyzed for 13 standard water quality parameters. Ranges of the average values for those runoffs were pH, 2.2 to 7.1; oxidation-reduction potential, −3 to 284 mV; conductivity, 200 to 5833 μmhos/cm; turbidity, 5 to 98, number of transfer units; ammonia, 0.2 to 1.0 mg/L; nitrate 0.3 to 27.0 mg/L, organic nitrogen, 9 to 50 mg/L; sulfate, 65 to 7211 mg/L; total organic carbon, 6 to 70 mg/L; inorganic carbon, 2.6 to 21 mg/L; biochemical oxygen demand <5 to 20 mg/L; chemical oxygen demand, 65 to 744 mg/L; and suspended solids (nonfiltrable residue) 54 to 596 mg/L. This research demonstrated some of the qualities of runoff that may be expected from stockpiles of these four representative coals.
Fitting a Population of Feet
Authors: Hicks JF
Published: February 2009

Results of foot surveys of men's, women's, and children's feet are discussed.
Foot Measurement Strategies for Fitting Athletes
Authors: Bunch RP
Published: February 2009

Last development in the shoe industry has historically been a craft practiced by skilled artisans. Although satisfactory fit has been established over the years for the general population, it is very difficult, if not impossible, to evaluate if the fit is “optimal” for a specific group of athletes. Two development projects, supported by case studies, are reported which demonstrate improvements in the traditional approach to last design, and the resulting fit for shoes built on the lasts.
Custom Footwear: The Role of Computer-Aided Engineering
Authors: Staros A , Schwartz RS
Published: February 2009

We propose that research be performed to specify the computer-aided engineering required in custom footwear production. Presently, custom shoes for orthopedic conditions and for very active athletes must be derived from casts representing foot topography or wood lasts which must be modified by hand to represent the essential biomechanical features. Three-dimensional (3-D) imaging technology should be accessed for application to this problem. In replacing the cast and last skill-based techniques, the proposed system would record surface and underlying bony topographies for display and operator modifications made interactively on the computer screen. Software, like the operator intervention, would introduce biomechanical requirements of pathology or of special service demands, as in sports. Pressure mapping can also be introduced to display how shape modifications affect the critical force (shear) patterns on the foot. Stages are proposed in the development of a complete system for the provision of custom footwear, making such footwear accessible to an increased proportion of the nation's population.
Development of a Method to Measure Wear on Resilient Flooring—Part II
Authors: Bradway DH , Irwin WE
Published: February 2009

An interlaboratory study conducted by the ASTM F06.33 Task Group on Abrasion and Wear has shown that a correlation exists between the Frick-Taber Method for measuring abrasion resistance and in situ wear. This is a verification of results obtained on European flooring reported by Otto F. V. Frick, National Institute for Material, Stockholm, Sweden. Dr. Frick developed the original grit feeding device which is now manufactured in the United States in a modified form. ASTM Subcommittee F06.30 on Resilient Flooring directed that this work be done to show that a correlation exists using the commercially available abrasion equipment on flooring manufactured in the United States.
CFC 113: A Unique Member of the Halogenated Solvent Family
Authors: Murphy KP
Published: February 2009

Halogenated fluorocarbons form a unique class of materials. One member of this class, CFC 113, has found wide application as a solvent in the electronics, metal working, and aerospace industries. Because of concerns over possible ozone depletion by certain members of the fluorocarbon family, various alternatives are being evaluated. It has been found difficult, however, to find replacements with similar properties. In the short term the conservation and recycling of CFC 113 solvents offer the best opportunity of reducing its possible impact on the environment.
Fatigue of Submerged Concrete under Low-Cycle, High-Magnitude Loads
Authors: Mor A , Hester WT , Gerwick BC
Published: February 2009

A procedure for testing submerged, reinforced concrete beams subjected to reversible fatigue loading is presented. The procedure focused on the use of simplified systems for reversible loading and effective submersion of the concrete. These systems helped to reduce substantially the cost associated with fatigue testing of reinforced concrete beams. Degradation of the beam was measured continuously by analyzing deflection without halting the cyclic loading. Extensive tests on accompanying specimens and post-failure tests were performed. The program also utilized a computerized, highly automatic system for test control, data acquisition, and analysis of data.
Use of a Digital Waveform Analyzer, Accelerometers, and a Load Cell to Measure Momentum and Clamping Forces of Killing Traps for Furbearers
Authors: Cook SR , Proulx G
Published: February 2009

This paper describes a procedure that can be used to mechanically evaluate the momentum and clamping forces of a killingtype animal trap. The instrumentation, set-up procedures, and software packages used to analyze the data are described. Some typical results of the firing of a trap and the graph generated by the software are shown.
Determination of the Loading Rate Needed to Obtain Environmentally Assisted Cracking in Rising Load Tests
Authors: Mayville RA , Warren TJ , Hilton PD
Published: February 2009

A method is proposed to calculate the loading rate needed to induce environmentally assisted cracking (EAC) in precracked specimens tested under rising load. The procedure applies to materials that fracture by ductile tearing under inert conditions and requires some EAC data, although these may be obtained from one of several sources. A fundamental basis is provided to explain why the rising load test can serve as an accelerated test. Application to a medium strength steel in synthetic seawater and a pipeline steel in a carbonate/bicarbonate solution shows good results: EAC was exhibited and a close estimate of the threshold stress intensity factor for sustained load was obtained in less than one tenth the time required by conventional methods.
Proposed Standard Arc-Bend Chord-Support Fracture Toughness Specimens and K Expressions
Authors: Underwood JH
Published: February 2009

Collocation and finite element calculations and limit solutions were used to propose standard geometries and K expressions for measuring fracture toughness with arc-bend chord-support specimens. Polynomial expressions for K were determined for a wide range of crack lengths and for two span-to-depth ratios. The fracture toughnesses of steel and aluminum alloys were measured using the proposed methods and compared with results from existing standard methods.
Morphological Structures in Analysis and Inspection of Hole Quality in Fiber Composites
Authors: Griswold NC , Massarweh WA , Hough CL
Published: February 2009

Use of vision systems for evaluating hole quality in fiber composites is gaining acceptance. As cost of production becomes increasingly critical, manufacturers are seeking methods for production which have high speed through-put and are less computationally intensive. The solution to these types of dilemmas is in the algorithm structure as opposed to simply more computing power. This paper presents algorithms for high quality evaluation of composite machining and drill wear. This research applies mathematical morphology as an image processing construct and demonstrates its utility by evaluating several drilling operations with fiber composites. It is concluded that this method allows higher through-put and less cost of checking holes during the machining process. The algorithm's structure is implementable on most personal computers compatible with the IBM PC-AT class.
Effect of Relative Humidity on Permeance of Coatings
Authors: Batdorf V
Published: February 2009

The water vapor permeance is defined as a ratio of the water vapor transmission of a body between two specified parallel surfaces, to the water vapor pressure difference between the two surfaces. Since water vapor pressure differential across a film is the principal driving force in water vapor diffusion through the film, the transmission rate through any particular film should have a linear relationship to the difference in relative humidity across the film for any fixed temperature condition. This linear relationship can only be true if the coating has no interaction with the water molecules passing through the film, and the film remains unchanged by relative humidity conditions.

Test data are presented showing that for various coating compositions there is an interaction with moisture passing through the film, which is dependent upon each film's particular water sensitivity and absorption. This interaction is shown to result in a non-ideal behavior, with the permeance not being independent of relative humidity conditions. Rather the permeance was found to increase with an increasing relative humidity differential across the film.
Comparison of Six Media for Klebsiella spp. Enumeration by Membrane Filtration
Authors: Desjardins RM , Seyfried PL , Alarcon A , Young M
Published: February 2009

Six media (mK2, mK4, mK5, mKleb, mFCIC, and mCIK) were assessed for their ability to recover Klebsiella spp. from nonpolluted and polluted waters. Ninety-six percent of presumptive target colonies recovered on mK2 were identified as Klebsiella spp., while approximately 93% of the presumptive target colonies on mFCIC, mKleb, mK4, and mK5 were identified as Klebsiella spp. Target colony identification on mCIK was difficult; therefore this medium was not considered for further testing.

Performance characteristics were determined on mFCIC, mK2, and mK4 media in accordance with ASTM specifications. The false positive error for mK4 was 0.058, whereas the other media had values approximating 0.015. The mFCIC and mK5 media had an undetected target error of 0; the undetected target error for mKleb, mK2, and mK4 was less than 0.06. The index of selectivity for mKleb was 0.53, while the other media had an index of selectivity of approximately 0.64. Due to the low index of selectivity of mKleb, and the lower presumptive target colony recovery on mK5, these media were not considered for further evaluation.

Accuracy values using unstressed Klebsiella cultures, for mFCIC, mK2, and mK4, averaged 114% compared to the reference mK medium base. Following the application of stress to the cultures for 24 h, the accuracy value calculated for mFCIC was 81.9% in comparison with values of 118.8% and 111.0% for mK2 and mK4, respectively. The upper counting limits for mK2, mFCIC, and mK4 were 115, 127, and 127 colonies per filter, respectively.

Even though the performance characteristics of mK2, mK4 and mFCIC were similar, the medium judged most suitable for Klebsiella recovery was mK4. This was primarily due to the ease of identification of target colonies and the relatively low background colony interference.
Temperature Dependence of Dynamic Young's and Shear Moduli for Four Different Heat Treated Conditions of Depleted U-2Mo
Authors: Varughese JV , Wolfenden A , Ludtka GM
Published: February 2009

Dynamic Young's and shear moduli measurements were made for depleted U-2Mo alloys. The experimental technique used was the PUCOT (Piezoelectric Ultrasonic Composite Oscillator Technique). Experiments were performed on four different heat treatments of the alloy from ambient temperature to 800°C in 50°C increments.
Monitoring Environmental Tests by Coulometric Reduction of Metallic Control Samples
Authors: Krumbein SJ , Newell B , Pascucci V
Published: February 2009

This paper describes a standard procedure for using constant-current electrolytic reduction (“coulometric reduction”) to determine the relative buildup of corrosion and tarnish films on control coupons from environmental tests, and discusses the types of results and correlations that may be expected. Examples of the applications of this proposed ASTM standard method will be presented for two types of environmental exposure: the mixed flowing gas test and the humid sulfur vapor (“flowers-of-sulfur”) test.
A Linear Short-Lever Extensometer
Authors: Atkinson M
Published: February 2009

Development of a compact, versatile yet accurate extensometer is described. The extensometer has a lever mechanism with added linkage to maintain the transducer alignment exactly parallel to the gage length. The design features linear translation through a large working range, variable initial gage length, and good access to small tensile specimens with minimum interference in plastic behavior.
Evaluation of Published Data on Ductile Initiation Fracture Toughness of Low-Alloy Structural Steels
Authors: Ebrahimi F , Ali JA
Published: February 2009

Published data on ductile initiation fracture toughness, namely J-integral (Ji) and crack tip opening displacement (δi), of high-strength low-alloy steels with 275 MPa (40 ksi) minimum yield strength have been compiled along with material and testing parameters. Yield strength (σy) has been chosen as the main parameter for evaluating the compiled data. The compiled Ji and δi data showed a large range of variation at a given strength level. In an attempt to identify the testing parameters that contribute to this variation, the compiled data have been classified into four categories: (1) valid-standard, (2) valid-nonstandard, (3) invalid-standard, and (4) invalid-nonstandard. The critical review of sorted data has revealed that (1) microstructure, (2) testing method, and (3) validity contribute to both the scatter and the behavior of Ji values as a function of yield strength. The differences observed in the behavior of various sets of data are discussed considering the physical process of ductile crack initiation at the crack tip. The correlation between Ji and δi was investigated using linear regression analysis. The slope of the Ji/σy versus δi plot was found to be in the range 1.7 to 2.0.
Localized Intrinsic Strengthening Approach (LISA): A Practical Method for Determining the Tensile Strength of Multistrand Cables
Authors: Akhtar A
Published: February 2009

The problem of stress concentration and the associated premature failure in tension test specimens of multistrand conductors and wire ropes has been overcome through localized cooling of the end fitting with liquid nitrogen. A reliable measurement of the true tensile strength (TTS) of a range of multistrand bodies of interest to electrical utilities has been achieved using a number of commercially available end fittings and clamps. Measured values of TTS have been found to be as much as 22.9% higher than the calculated rated tensile strength (RTS). A standard test method is proposed that is simple and cost effective. The localized intrinsic strengthening approach (LISA) is invaluable in a quantitative evaluation of the efficiency of end fittings and splices, in determining the residual strength of multistrand bodies, and for optimizing the design of conductors and wire ropes.
Failure Probability Analysis of Proof Loaded Components
Authors: Margetson J , Cooper NR
Published: February 2009

An extension to the traditional engineering proof test has been used as a means of estimating the statistical distribution of component strength. The maximum likelihood analysis of censored samples has been applied to data obtained from components which fail the application of a proof load, in order to predict the distribution of those which survive. Extra data (for example, from component trials) can be included in this analysis to improve the estimates of the distribution parameters.
Cryogenic Fatigue Properties of 304L and 316L Stainless Steels Compared to Mechanical Strength and Increasing Magnetic Permeability
Authors: Suzuki K , Fukakura J , Kashiwaya H
Published: February 2009

For superconducting magnet applications, the 4 K fatigue life curves of the cryogenic structural materials 304L and 316L stainless steel were obtained using axial-strain control conditions. These curves were compared with others at 77 and 300 K and with data for other 300-series stainless steels in the literature. Increasing magnetic permeability with monotonic tensile and cyclic straining, due to strain-induced martensitic transformation, was also investigated, since 304L and 316L are metastable austenitic stainless steels. 4 K fatigue life curves relating magnetic permeability effects were obtained. Fatigue tests relating magnetic permeability at 77 and 300 K were also conducted for comparison. Finally, a cryogenic fatigue design criterion for preventing mechanical failure and increasing magnetic permeability was considered.
Lateral Collapse Potential of Wood Stringer-Type Pallets
Authors: McLain TE , Arritt DL
Published: February 2009

Lateral collapse of wood stringer-type pallets is defined as an overturning of stringers due to in-plane lateral impact loads or vibration. This failure results in increased handling costs, potential product and equipment damage, and possible human injury. This paper describes a means of evaluating the potential for lateral collapse of a wood pallet design. A minimum horizontal force required to cause overturning of stringers is calculated from input data on pallet size and shape, unit load weight, and the moment-resistance characteristics of the joints. A relative measure of lateral collapse potential is determined and compared to acceptance criteria developed from a field survey of failures.
Development of a Miniaturized Specimen Technique for Fracture ToughnessJIc Measurement
Authors: Mao XY , Shoji T , Takahashi H
Published: February 2009

The effect of specimen thickness on fracture toughness JIc has been investigated with compact tension specimens using the multispecimen R-curve method. HT-9 and A533B-1 steel specimens with thicknesses of 25(1TCT), 10(0.4TCT), 3, and 0.5(0.2TCT) mm were tested. Some of them did not satisfy the ASTM E 813 size requirement for valid JIc. The through-thickness distribution of the plastic energy dissipation or work done within the intense strain region at the crack tip was measured by using a recrystallization-etch technique. Fractographic examinations of the variation of stretch zone width and fracture modes along the specimen thickness were performed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), where flat fracture and shear fracture regions have been distinguished. A new JIc evaluation procedure for invalid specimen size is proposed using rigid plastic analysis and shear fracture measurements with recrystallization-etch or fractographic observations. Predicted JIc values are compared with the JIc values obtained from valid specimen size. This miniaturized specimen technique may be applicable to post-irradiation fracture toughness testing.
Optimization of the Gel Electrode for Repeatable Imaging of Fatigue Cracks in Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Baxter WJ
Published: February 2009

The gel electrode method of detecting and imaging very small fatigue cracks in aluminum alloys provides the basis for a more rapid evaluation of fatigue performance and offers the convenience of periodic inspections during a test to monitor the initiation and growth of cracks. However, repetitive imaging of fatigue cracks can yield images with successively weaker contrast. This problem can be avoided by the correct selection of the operating parameters. This report describes the influence of various parameters on the spatial resolution and repeatability of the image. The spatial resolution is increased by increasing the starch concentration and reducing the charge flow. To obtain repeatable images the pulse duration (and charge) must be adjusted to balance the effects of the processes of passivation and corrosion. Sodium borate, which was previously included as an electrochemical buffer, should be omitted because it promotes too much passivation. Increasing the concentration of potassium iodide deters passivation so that images can be obtained repeatably with a shorter voltage pulse, less charge, and better spatial resolution. A compromise must be made between the spatial resolution and the visibility of the image. For routine inspection of components a highly visible image can be obtained with a gel electrode containing 0.06 M potassium iodide (KI) and 0.2 M starch upon application of a 10 V, 50 ms pulse. This combination yields repeatable images of cracks in aluminum alloys, with a spatial resolution ≈ 6 × 10−2 mm.
Creep and Rupture Tests of Alloy A-286 at Elevated Temperatures
Authors:   The Metal Properties Council Inc.
Published: February 2009

A Metal Properties Council (MPC) task group was set up in June 1976 to find solutions to the problem of Alloy A-286 disk failures in the gas turbine industry. The task group submitted a proposal to MPC for a test program to (1) develop the necessary data to make a recommendation to ASTM for consideration of a revised acceptance test in ASTM Specification for Precipitation Hardening Iron Base Superalloys Bars, Forgings, and Forging Stock for High-Temperature Service (A 638), and (2) validate the effectiveness of improving the notch ductility of Alloy A-286 through multiple aging treatment. These creep and rupture tests of Alloy A-286 at elevated temperatures are described in this paper.
Design and Performance of a Ring-Shaped Clip Gage for Fracture Mechanics Testing
Authors: Tobler RL , Shepic JA
Published: February 2009

A ring-shaped clip-on displacement gage for fracture mechanics testing is described. The novel design of this gage offers superior sensitivity and operating conveniences compared with the conventional double-cantilever beam type gage referenced in ASTM fracture test standards. The construction of ring gages for room temperature and cryogenic applications is discussed.
Fluid Filter Media: Measuring the Average Pore Size and the Pore-Size Distribution, and Correlation with Results of Filtration Tests
Authors: Johnston PR
Published: February 2009

This paper discusses permeability (fluid flow) as a function of porosity (void volume) and average pore size, the most probable pore-size distribution, alternative meanings of average pore size, and how these measurements correlate with results of separate filtration tests.
A Provisional Multispecies Toxicity Test Using Indigenous Organisms
Authors: Cairns J , Pratt JR , Niederlehner BR
Published: February 2009

A multispecies toxicity test is described that uses indigenous microorganisms. The test is suitable for both laboratory and field, is inexpensive, replicates easily, and uses extremely inexpensive materials. An additional advantage is the use of an important ecological rate process as an end point; therefore the test is superior to test using lethality as an end point. The test can be carried out using organisms collected from a site of interest or from a specific ecological resource area. Site-specific or synthetic dilution water may be used. The major drawback is a requirement for significant taxonomic ability. However, more general chemical measures such as ATP biomass, chlorophyll biomass, or heterotrophic index may substitute for species identification. Although this test has been used in a variety of freshwater ecosystems in the United States and has been validated to a limited degree in the People's Republic of China, a wider data base is required before it can be generally used.
Experimental Verification of a Finite Element Contact Analysis
Authors: Purushothaman N , Heaton BS , Moore ID
Published: February 2009

A three-dimensional viscoelastic finite element analysis fully described elsewhere was developed by the authors to study the skid resistance of road pavements. This paper describes an experimental procedure developed to verify the validity of the results predicted by the viscoelastic finite element analysis. Description is given of a variable speed pendulum to measure the skid resistance of pavement samples in the laboratory. The method used to measure the elastic and viscoelastic properties of the rubber is then outlined. From the comparison of measured values with the theoretical predictions it is concluded that the theory predicted the sliding friction of rubber reasonably well. This experimental procedure combined with the viscoelastic analysis can be used effectively to study the tire/pavement interaction problem.
Statistical Design of Fatigue Crack Growth Test Programs
Authors: Salivar GC , Hoeppner DW
Published: February 2009

An experimental design method for determining statistically significant differences in fatigue crack growth rate data due to the influence of various test conditions (factors) is presented. This method is based on a completely randomized factorial design and a three-way classification Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) procedure. Although the example presented is for fatigue crack growth rate testing, this method is generic to any materials test program where comparisons of properties or behavior are made. The procedure allows decisions regarding these comparisons to be based on statistical tests of significance.
A Fatigue Test Machine for Biaxial Compression of Concrete
Authors: Su ECM , Hsu TTC
Published: February 2009

A 980 kN (220 000 lb) capacity test machine has been developed to study the fatigue behavior of concrete under biaxial compression. It features a load bifurcation mechanism and brush-type loading platens. Concrete plates 15.2 by 15.2 by 3.8 cm (6 by 6 by 1.5 in.) can be tested with the two principal stress ratios ranging from 0 (uniaxial) to 1.0 (equal biaxial), and without edge frictional constraint. Deformations in the three principal directions can be measured continuously throughout a test using a capacitance-type measuring device.
Robust Design of the Iosipescu Shear Test Specimen for Composites
Authors: Chiang YJ
Published: February 2009

For the purpose of improving the accuracy of the Iosipescu shear test method, researchers have been interested in analyzing the uniformity of shear stress distribution along the notched cross section for different design configurations of specimens made of various materials. But a one-factor-at-a-time approach cannot lead to a full understanding of the shearing behavior. The statistical design of experiments based on finite element models is employed here to characterize impacts of main effects and interactions among various design factors on the uniformity of shear stress distribution along the notched cross section for two kinds of unidirectional laminae with different orthotropy: Boron/Al (boron-fiber-reinforced aluminum) and Gl/Epoxy (glass-fiber-reinforced epoxy). It is shown that (a) the notch radius and height of a specimen are significant factors, (b) the notch angle is also significant, and 90° is better than 110° in reducing the variation of shear stress distribution, and (c) some two-factor interactions are influential.
The Unlubricated Sliding Wear of Steels: The Contact Conditions in the Sliding Zone
Authors: Bian S , Maj S , Borland DW
Published: February 2009

Previously reported studies of the unlubricated sliding of quenched-and-tempered steel pins against similarly treated rings have been supplemented by temperature measurements and tests over a range of loads and speeds. The rate of wear of a pin depends on the hardness of the countersurface; it is shown that the increase in the rate for softer rings is accompanied by a higher temperature in the pin and a rougher wear track on the ring. Attention is thereby drawn towards the conditions in the contact zone, both during running in and when a steady state has been reached. Erratum to this paper appears in 24(4).
Third-Party Inspection Agency Response to Changing Needs
Authors: Kay A
Published: February 2009

The third-party inspection process is part of the commercial mechanism and as commerce changes so must independent inspection. Additionally, technological development also plays a major role. A third element is the impact of regulatory compliance; both its direct impact on commerce and its indirect impact on operations. In recent years both commerce and technology have brought about change and response. To be commercially viable, the third party inspector must be able to demonstrate strict conformance to recognized standards. How to assure this conformance has been a predominant issue with inspectors and their clients for many years. Accreditation of one kind or another, whether global in nature such as ISO 9000 or local, such as a single facility audit or a combination of both, has been the most recent vehicle for trying to reach this goal. The result of this is a tapestry of commerce and technology, interwoven with threads of compliance and conformance, both mandatory and voluntary.
National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies Certification: Addressing the Technician Component of Laboratory Quality
Authors: Pao C , Clark MA , Antrim JD
Published: February 2009

Essential to any quality laboratory operation are its technicians. A laboratory might well meet the accreditation requirements for facilities and equipment, personnel training policies, and management practices but consistent, high-quality operation cannot exist without competent personnel performing the various activities.

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) offers a means of establishing the knowledge and abilities of laboratory personnel who participate in inspection, sampling, and testing activities. NICET certifies engineering technicians by evaluating work experience, written examination performance, and recommendations by supervisors and other professionals.

The NICET job task competency based certification programs were introduced in 1979. Acceptance by certificants, employers, and regulators has resulted in significant growth in both the number of persons certified and the number of new specialty programs developed.

The NICET approach to certification includes two unique features. One is that the content of a specialty certification program is a collection of modules, each of which encompasses a particular job task (such as determining the air content of freshly mixed concrete by a particular ASTM standard test method) or a specific knowledge area (such as basic mathematics). The other is that the modules are categorized according to increasing levels of knowledge, experience, and responsibility. This arrangement allows the creation of written examinations that support a “career path” from an entry level technician to a senior level technician.

A bonus feature of the NICET approach to testing is that because the modules are narrowly focused, the resulting examination score report can help both the technician and the employer pinpoint strengths and weaknesses. This information permits a more focused training effort rather than a “shotgun” or “A to Z” effort.
Development and Application of a Quality System Standard for Construction Materials Testing Laboratories
Authors: Spellerberg PA , Trimm WL , Pielert JH
Published: February 2009

The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Accreditation Program (AAP) was initiated by AASHTO in 1988 as a tool for promoting the quality of testing in construction materials laboratories. The program currently has around 120 laboratories accredited for testing of various construction materials. In the program it became apparent that there was a need to provide specific guidance to laboratories in preparing and implementing a quality system. In response, AASHTO prepared Recommended Practice R18-92I, “Establishing and Implementing a Quality System for Construction Materials Testing Laboratories.” While generally based on existing ASTM and International Standards Organization (ISO) standards, Practice R18 is much more definitive in regard to evaluation criteria for construction materials laboratories. It includes an appendix that provides illustrated examples of documents, forms, and standard operating procedures, which may be used by the laboratory in preparing a quality manual. Practice R18 has been adopted for use in the AASHTO Materials Reference Laboratory (AMRL) Laboratory Inspection Program, and became mandatory for laboratories participating in the AASHTO Accreditation Program in April 1994. This paper presents an overview of Practice R18 and its use in the AMRL Laboratory Inspection Program and the AASHTO Accreditation Program.