**What is BS 131-4 – Notched bar tests about?**

BS 131-4 standard is a part of the BS 131 series that discusses the calibration of pendulum impact testing machines for metals for the notched bar tests. With the notched-bar impact testing we determine the toughness of a metallic or polymeric material under various temperature conditions.

BS 131-4 gives the methods for the inspection, calibration and verification of Izod pendulum impact testing machines, and includes instructions for certificates of calibration and verification. The methods cover the following elements of the machine, which are illustrated in:

Machine framework (i.e., the structure supporting the pendulum, excluding only the foundation)
Pendulum and striker
Test piece supports
Indicating equipment (e.g., scale and friction pointer).

In applying the methods all the absorbed energy indicated by the machine is attributed to the fracturing of the test piece.

**Who is BS 131-4 – Notched bar tests for?**

BS 131-4 on notched bar test applies to:

Manufacturer of notched bar tests products
Engineer

**Why should you use BS 131-4 – Notched bar tests?**

With the notched-bar impact testing, we determine the toughness of a metallic or polymeric material under various temperature conditions. Pendulum impact testing is performed to determine the amount of energy dissipated during the fracture of material under severe loading conditions.

BS 131-4 provides you with the guidance of pendulum in which the pendulum is located so that the line of contact between the striking edge and the test piece is 22 ± 0.5 mm above the top surface of the test piece supports, and the angle between the underside of the striker and the face of the test piece is 100 ± 1°. This helps you in the calibration of pendulum impact testing machines for metals for the notched bar tests.

Overall, BS 131-4 provides you with comprehensive guidance useful throughout the notched bar tests.

BS 131-4:1972

Notched bar tests - Calibration of pendulum impact testing machines for metals

Current

Published:

30 Mar 1972