Baker Testing provides a range of destructive testing methods for Welding Procedure and Welder Qualification, proof load testing, and other tension or compression test applications.
In conjunction with the non-destructive tests or as stand-alone projects with the cutting and machining capabilities we provide, Baker Testing can take destructive test projects from start to finish with authorized reports and approved code certifications.
Tension and Proof Load Testing
Baker Testing maintains a 60,000 pound tensile machine to apply tension on machined tensile samples and other specimens.
Measuring the point of break / failure, or holding a specified proof load in tension demonstrates strength and ductility of materials. Precise measurements of applied stresses in both tension and compression can be reported on approved Procedure Qualification Reports, and Material Test reports for a variety of code certifications.
Calibrated annually, Baker Testing’s Baldwin tensile machine tests provide information on the ultimate strength, yield point, elongation and reduction of area for welding, base materials or custom components.
Guided Bend Testing
Using the compression feature of the Baldwin tensile machine, or a pneumatic roller press, weld face, root and side bend testing proves the material strength, ductility and resistance to fracture from weld discontinuities or other material conditions. 180 degree Guided Bend Testing with a specified radius and roller spacing proves the overall material toughness under extreme stress. Bend testing is often used to Qualify Welders or as part of a Welding Procedure Qualification.
Macro Etch Testing
Macro Etch Testing of welds or brazed joints provides a polished and etched weld cross-section for examination. After polishing the weld cross section and heat affected zone adjacent to the weld, the polished surface is etched with a suitable reagent Examination of the resulting specimen identifies flaws such as cracks, incomplete fusion, incomplete penetration, inclusions, lack of bond (brazing) and weld profile conditions.
Fillet Weld Break Fracture Testing
Fillet welder qualification tests often require fillet break fracture testing. Typically, a cut sample from single side welded T-plate coupon is compressed with a stress load applied to the root side of the joint until it fractures in the weld or adjacent base material. The resulting fracture surfaces are examined for evidence of fusion type discontinuities, inclusions or porosity in accordance with code requirements for qualification acceptance.
Weld Nick Break Testing
As required by the American Petroleum Institute (API), Northeast Gas Association, and other standards, Weld Nick Break Testing comprises part of welding procedure and welder performance qualification. After making notches in the center of weld test specimens, welds are typically broken in tension or by bending. Weld fracture surfaces are examined for complete fusion, penetration and other internal discontinuities for acceptance or rejection per applicable code criteria.
Machining Capabilities
Metal cutting band saw, machining, grinding and polishing capabilities allow us to take a test sample from start to finish with approved and certified test reports.