Propagation rates for stress-corrosion cracking (SCC) of high-strength aluminum alloys determined with mechanically precracked double-cantilever-beam (DCB) specimens provide a quantitative means of comparing the resistance to SCC of alloys and tempers. For relatively resistant materials however, the rates can be markedly influenced by test conditions and interpretation of the crack-growth data. This paper describes a relatively simple, accelerated testing method for determining SCC velocities that rank the SCC behavior of aluminum alloys in the same order as SCC propagation rates in a seacoast or industrial atmosphere. Practical difficulties associated with this test method, however, warrant further evaluation to justify this as a primary method of testing.
This paper describes a ring-loading method for evaluating stress-corrosion resistance with precracked specimens and presents representative data for compact specimens of some high-strength aluminum alloys. The deflection of the ring was large relative to that of the specimen, simulating deadweight loading. This method provides several advantages over techniques previously used. Unlike most constant-displacement loading systems, the load and crack length and thus the stress intensity are known accurately throughout the life of each test, and the initiation and growth of stress-corrosion cracking (SCC) lead to a definitive end point (failure). Also, the effects of corrosion product wedging are minimal. The ring loading system is more compact than most deadweight systems, and because it is readily automated, data can be collected with the expenditure of few manhours.
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