This specification establishes the procedure for Charpy V-notch testing of structural steel and contains two frequencies of testing. The impact properties of steel can vary within the same heat and piece, be it as-rolled, control-rolled, or heat treated. The purchaser should therefore be aware that testing of one plate, bar, or shape does not provide assurance that all plates, bars, or shapes of the same heat as processed will be identical in toughness with the product tested. Normalizing or quenching and tempering the product will reduce the degree of variation.

This specification is intended to supplement specifications for structural steel when so specified.

This specification does not necessarily apply to all product specifications; therefore, the manufacturer or processor should be consulted for energy absorption levels and minimum testing temperatures that can be expected or supplied.

Two frequencies of testing (P and H) are prescribed.

The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. Within the text, the inch-pound units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each system are not exact equivalents; therefore, each system must be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the specification.