A RENAISSANCE IN THE USE OF THE SMALL PUNCH TESTING TECHNIQUE

摘要

This paper is intended to evaluate whether the CEN CWA 15627 'Small Punch Test Method for Metallic Materials' has indeed succeeded in providing a stimulus for a wider implementation of the small punch test technique in industrial applications throughout Europe and indeed worldwide since its first publication in 2006. Significant research progress has been achieved, as strongly evidenced in three dedicated SSTT (Small Specimen Testing Techniques) conferences held in Europe over the last five years, but also in the wider literature. There has also been the recent publication of a Japanese standard and the announcement of parallel progress in China but the present paper concentrates on progress within Europe from the launch of the Code to the present day. In particular, attention is focused on the need for industrial acceptance of the test methodology and methods for evaluating the results where some scepticism still seems to prevail. Nevertheless the technique is still applied within the original remit for nuclear inspection, continues to be strongly considered for application in the conventional power generation sector judging from the extent of tests on power plant steels and shows interest in development for aerospace and next generation nuclear applications enhancing further the credibility of the Code.