The aim of this study is to investigate fracture toughness of a Zr-2.5Nb pressure tube with temperature. The tensile and fracture toughness tests were performed at temperatures ranging from room temperature to 300℃ on tensile and curved compact tens...
The aim of this study is to investigate fracture toughness of a Zr-2.5Nb pressure tube with temperature. The tensile and fracture toughness tests were performed at temperatures ranging from room temperature to 300℃ on tensile and curved compact tension, CCT specimens. The CCT specimens were directly cut from the tube retaining original curvature using wire cutting machine. The Zr-2.5Nb tube had a decrease in yield and tensile strengths with increasing temperature. However, its elongation had a maximum at 150℃ followed by a decrease with increasing temperatures. The loss of ductility which was stricking in the temperature range of 200~250℃ determined the fracture toughness resistance, dJ/da of the Zr-2.5Nb tube with temperature, resulting in the maximum in the range of 100~150℃. The temperature dependence of the fracture toughness for the Zr-2.5Nb tube is discussed fracture in association with the formation of secondary crack on the fractured surfaces.