1.1 This guide covers supplementary guidelines for plane-strain fracture toughness testing of aluminum products for which complete stress relief is not practicable. Guidelines for recognizing when residual stresses may be significantly biasing test results are presented, as well as methods for minimizing the effects of residual stress during testing. This guide also provides guidelines for correction and interpretation of data produced during the testing of these products. Test Method E399 is the standard test method to be used for plane-strain fracture toughness testing of aluminum alloys.

1.2 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.