Fracture toughness and fatigue crack growth at non-creep temperatures
The European Commission, DG XI, has launched an open call to tender for a study evaluating fracture toughness and fatigue crack growth for transition (bi-metallic) welds at non-creep temperatures. The study should provide a basis for harmonization of European practices and identification of approaches for improvement of the existing codes and standards in the area of bi-metallic welds of light-water reactors (LWRs). The study should also include Russian cooperation. The study focuses on two areas, e.g. the collection and review of fracture toughness and fatigue crack growth data on transition welds in LWR pressure vessel materials, and the performance of a benchmark calculation for a suitable transition weld. The study should: - Collect fracture toughness and fatigue crack growth data on transition weld joints, including associated tensile data; - Examine the validity of using conventional testing standards to provide fatigue crack growth and fracture toughness data for bi-metallic welded joints; - Agree on the geometry, material properties, temperature, loading conditions and defect position/size for a benchmark calculation of a specific bi-metallic weld; - Compare results and reach conclusions and recommendations for suitable code rules by which fatigue crack growth and ductile tearing could be predicted. The study should be completed within 24 months following the signature of the contract. Tenderers must demonstrate experience in this area, and propose an organization with representatives from several EU Member States. Requests for tender specifications, and completed tenders, should be sent to: European Commission DG XI - Environment, nuclear safety and civil protection Mr. B. Sinnott 200 rue de la Loi (TRMF 4/87) B-1049 Brussels Fax +32-2-2994449