Range of Approval Extension
The extension of the range of qualification allows transferring qualification results to similar plate thicknesses, pipe sizes, or material types. It reduces the necessary destructive tests.
Physicochemical Mechanism of Action
The extension of the range of application is based on the assumption that similar materials and geometric properties have comparable mechanical properties. Therefore, the qualification of a material under a specific set of test conditions can be transferred to similar profiles.
Metallurgical Relevance & Welding Risks
Correct application of the range extension avoids unnecessary and expensive destructive testing. However, incorrect application can lead to inaccurate qualification results, posing risks to the safety and service life of the welded joint.
Workshop Practice & Action Instructions
To correctly apply the range extension, the materials and geometric properties of the components to be tested must be very similar. The exact definition of the range should be recorded in the qualification protocol. If in doubt, additional testing is advisable.