Charpy Impact Test Services

A Charpy impact test, also known as the Charpy V-notch test, is a destructive method. It measures a material’s toughness, the ability to absorb energy, and resistance to brittle fracture.

What does impact strength tell you about a material?

Understanding the energy absorption properties of a material is essential to predict how the material will react to impact loading and is, therefore, a determining factor in the suitability of a designed material for a particular application. Designed to measure the amount of energy that a material can absorb as it fractures, processes such as Charpy impact testing or Izod testing is a vital part of many material characterization programs.

How is the Charpy impact test performed?

The test uses a pendulum hammer arm to strike a standard notched specimen. The hammer is dropped from a known height and the test specimen is broken.  After impact, samples are analyzed for the amount of energy absorbed by the specimen during fracture and strength characteristics. The impact energy indicates the toughness of a material. 

As a world leader in the provision of routine mechanical testing, Element provides the Charpy impact test services in accordance with multiple International standards such as NADCAP, ISO 148, and ASTM E23 for both metallic and polymeric materials. Our ISO 17025-accredited testing laboratories support quality design programs with accurate test results and competitive turnaround times. 

Our Charpy impact test capabilities

Our impact testing labs can perform a range of services including: 

• Ambient and low-temperature testing
• Cryogenic testing capabilities
• Ductile-brittle transition curves
• Plasticity and deformation
• U-notch, V-notch, and double notched 
• Energy absorption characteristics
• Lateral expansion
• Percent shear
• Crystallinity and shear determination
• Use of state-of-the-art Charpy impact machines with a capacity of 450 Joules

We can also subject materials and products to dynamic Charpy impact, measuring cushioning, g-force, and impact failure mechanisms. 

Element’s Charpy test reports

Charpy testing provides a wealth of material data with a single test. We help ensure that you get the most out of your materials by providing in-depth, detailed impact test reports.

The Element advantage

We assist in all stages of the process, from complex test procedure to interpreting test results and providing relevant report. With years of testing experience, we can assist with any project, no matter how complex.

To speak to an expert about our Charpy impact testing services, or to request a quote, contact us today.