This practice covers procedures that can be followed to safeguard against the possible embrittlement of steel hot-dip galvanized after fabrication, and outlines test procedures for detecting embrittlement. Conditions of fabrication may induce a susceptibility to embrittlement in certain steels that can be accelerated by galvanizing. Open-hearth, basic-oxygen, and electric-furnace steels shall be used for galvanizing. Other materials that can be galvanized include continuous cast slabs, steel or iron castings, and wrought iron. The material shall undergo cold working and thermal treatment. Embrittlement of steel shapes, steel castings, threaded articles, and hardware items shall be tested using a bend test , a universal testing machine, or by means of a press with the load applied slowly, until fracture of the galvanized test specimen occurs.

1.1 This practice covers procedures that can be followed to safeguard against the possible embrittlement of steel hot-dip galvanized after fabrication, and outlines test procedures for detecting embrittlement. Conditions of fabrication may induce a susceptibility to embrittlement in certain steels that can be accelerated by galvanizing. Embrittlement is not a common occurrence, however, and this discussion does not imply that galvanizing increases embrittlement where good fabricating and galvanizing procedures are employed. Where history has shown that for specific steels, processes and galvanizing procedures have been satisfactory, this history will serve as an indication that no embrittlement problem is to be expected for those steels, processes, and galvanizing procedures.

1.2 This practice is applicable in either inch-pounds or SI units. Inch-pounds and SI units are not necessarily exact equivalents. Within the text of this practice and where appropriate, SI units are shown in brackets.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.