Article Charpy Impact Steel Testing: Part One 2 min read • March, 2019 • Material Properties › Material Testing and Performance Validation • Last technical review: 2026 Abstract The Charpy V-notch (CVN) impact test is a standardized method for measuring material toughness through impact energy absorption during fracture. This test employs a pendulum-based system to evaluate how materials respond to sudden impact forces, particularly crucial for applications in pressure vessels and bridge construction. The test utilizes a notched specimen and measures energy absorption through pendulum displacement, providing vital data about material behavior across different temperatures. Introduction to Charpy Impact Testing The Charpy V-notch impact test stands as a fundamental method in materials testing, providing critical data about material behavior under impact loading conditions. This standardized procedure measures the energy absorbed during material fracture, offering insights into material toughness and durability. Test Methodology and Standards The test follows specific international standards, primarily BS EN ISO 148-1:2009 (British Standard) and ASTM E23 (American Standard). These standards differ mainly in striker specifications but maintain consistent specimen dimensions: 55 mm length, 10 mm square cross-section, with a 2 mm deep notch featuring a 0.25 mm tip radius. Figure 1: Standard Charpy-V notch specimen Validate Material Performance with Referenced Data Compare test methods, measured properties, and material performance data to support engineering decisions. Explore Material Data Take a Guided Tour › Test Procedure and Equipment The testing process involves mounting a standardized specimen on an anvil support system, with the notched face positioned away from the striking pendulum. The pendulum's impact fractures the specimen, and the final swing height indicates the energy absorbed during fracture. Figure 2: The Charpy testing machine Variables and Result Interpretation Several factors influence test results, including: Specimen characteristics (notch geometry, grain structure, chemical composition) System parameters (machine calibration, friction) Environmental conditions (temperature control) Procedural aspects (operator technique) Temperature Effects and Transition Behavior A distinctive feature of carbon and low alloy steels is their temperature-dependent fracture behavior. When tested across various temperatures, these materials exhibit a characteristic 'S' curve showing the transition from ductile to brittle fracture. Figure 3: Schematic Charpy-V energy and % age crystallinity curves References 1. Predicting Charpy Impact Energy for Heat-Treated Steel using a Quantum-Membership-Function-based Fuzzy Model, Accessed FEB 2019;2. What is Charpy V-notch Test (CVN Impact test), HYSP, Accessed FEB 2019;3. Mechanical testing - Notched bar or Impact testing, TWI, Accessed FEB 2019.