ASTM E139 – Creep, Creep Rupture and, Stress Rupture Test of Metallic Materials
ASTM E139 test method involves creep and rupture tests for metallic materials. The creep test measures the load-carrying capacity of the material up to limited deformation. The rupture test measures load carrying capacity as a function of time. These tests complement each other for determining the load-carrying capacity of metallic materials. These test procedures cover the measurement of the time it takes for a fracture to occur when a force is present (rupture test) and the measurement of the amount of deformation that occurs as a function of time (creep test) for materials when subjected to constant tensile forces at constant temperature.
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- Overview
- Scope, Applications, and Benefits
- Test Process
- Specifications
- Instrumentation
- Results and Deliverables
Overview
ASTM E139 is a standard test method for evaluating the long-term performance of metallic materials by measuring their response to stress at elevated temperatures. This test is essential for high-performance applications in aerospace and power generation. ASTM E139 outlines steps for creep tests, measuring deformation over time; stress-rupture tests, measuring time to fracture; equipment; data analysis; and determining material properties and reliability under sustained load.
The ASTM E139 test method covers creep and rupture testing of metallic materials. The creep test measures a material’s ability to sustain loads while deforming up to a specified limit. The rupture test measures the load-carrying capability as a function of time. The load-carrying capability of metallic materials can be ascertained by combining these tests. These test methods include measuring the time required for fracture under constant tensile stress (rupture test) and measuring the amount of deformation over time (creep test) for materials subjected to constant tensile stress at a constant temperature.
Scope, Applications, and Benefits
Scope
ASTM E139 defines the standard testing methodologies for assessing the creep, creep-rupture, and stress-rupture characteristics of metallic materials under constant uniaxial load or stress at elevated temperatures for prolonged durations. The standard covers procedures for specimen preparation, loading methods, temperature control, strain measurement, test duration, and data reporting. ASTM E139 is relevant for assessing time-dependent deformation and failure characteristics essential to long-term performance.
Applications
- Evaluation of metals used in power generation equipment (boilers, turbines, heat exchangers).
- Material testing for aerospace and jet engine components.
- Assessment of materials for petrochemical and refinery process equipment.
- Qualification of materials for nuclear reactor components.
- Long-term performance analysis of pressure vessels and piping systems
Benefits
- Provides reliable data on time-dependent deformation (creep) of metals at elevated temperatures.
- Enables prediction of long-term material performance and durability under sustained loads.
- Helps determine creep-rupture and stress-rupture life for high-temperature components.
- Supports material selection and qualification for elevated-temperature applications.
- Assists in establishing design stress limits and safety factors.
Testing Process
Specimen Preparation
Machine and measure test specimens to specified dimensions; ensure smooth surface finish and proper identification.
1Equipment Setup
Mount the specimen in a calibrated creep-testing machine, ensuring proper alignment, and apply an uniaxial load.
2Test Execution
Maintain a constant load and temperature while recording strain over time.
3Data Analysis & Reporting
Determine creep rate, rupture time, and total strain; report test conditions and results per ASTM E139.
4Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Test Standard | ASTM E139 |
| Test Type | Creep, Creep Rupture, and Stress Rupture |
| Test Material | Metallic materials |
| Loading Mode | Constant uniaxial load or stress |
| Temperature Range | Elevated temperatures as specified for the material |
| Temperature Control | Furnace with calibrated thermocouples; temperature maintained within specified tolerances |
| Data Recorded | Strain vs. time, time to rupture, applied stress, test temperature |
| Output Parameters | Creep rate , total creep strain, rupture life |
Instrumentation Used
- Creep testing machine or creep frame
- High-temperature furnace or heating chamber
- Load application and dead-weight loading system
- High-temperature extensometer or strain measuring device
- Temperature measurement and control system (thermocouples)
- Data acquisition and monitoring system
Results and Deliverables
- Results obtained from different accepted procedures can vary significantly; therefore, clear identification of the test method used is essential.
- Subsequent studies aimed at establishing critical parameters are often limited by insufficient detail in published reports.
- The long duration of creep and rupture tests makes retesting impractical in many cases.
- Maintaining all controlled variables within recommended limits is challenging during prolonged testing.
- Comprehensive, detailed reporting enables accurate interpretation and use of test results without assuming control levels were not achieved.
Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM E139 test method involves creep and rupture tests for metallic materials. The creep test measures the load-carrying capacity of the material up to limited deformation. The rupture test measures load-carrying capacity as a function of time
Creep testing is an experiment that measures the gradual deformation of materials under constant load or stress over time, generally at a raised temperature. It helps evaluate materials' long-term stability and performance.
The test consists of measuring the specimen's cross-sectional areas and original length, cleaning the specimen, attaching a thermocouple, applying force in steps, measuring strain, and recording elongation and reduction in area.
Results regarding the extent of deformation-creep-and time to fracture-rupture for each test piece are reported. Data on elongation, reduction in area, and conditions during the actual test is given.
The test is time-consuming, the procedure is complex, the equipment required is precise, and results cannot fully represent all actual conditions since they depend on the test conditions themselves.
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