Pendelstoßtests

Pendelstoßtests, also known as Charpy impact tests, are a standard method for determining the toughness of a material. Toughness is the ability of a material to absorb energy and deform plastically before fracturing. This test is particularly important for materials that will be subjected to sudden impacts or low temperatures.

In a pendelstoßtest, a notched specimen of the material is placed in a fixture. A pendulum hammer is then released from a known height, swinging down and striking the specimen. The energy absorbed by the specimen during the impact is measured by the difference in the height of the pendulum before and after it strikes the sample. This absorbed energy is typically reported in Joules. A higher energy absorption value indicates a tougher material, while a lower value suggests a more brittle material.

The notch in the specimen serves to concentrate stress at a specific point, initiating fracture more readily and providing a consistent failure point for comparison. The shape and depth of the notch are standardized. Pendelstoßtests are widely used in quality control for metals, plastics, and composites, especially in industries where structural integrity under stress is critical, such as automotive, aerospace, and construction. The results can help engineers select appropriate materials for specific applications and predict how they will behave under dynamic loading conditions.