Test results for edge-notched pipe specimens within framework of experimental substantiation of the leak-before-break phenomenon.

The experimental equipment has been upgraded and requirements to geometrical sizes of edge notches of pipe specimens are formulated. A series of tests until fracture have been performed for static loading by internal pressure and bending moment of straight pipe specimens having longitudinal and circumferential edge notches, as well as for a pipe bend with a longitudinal edge notch. Experimental data are compared with the theoretical calculation results. The conditional boundary line between leak and break has been theoretically predicted and experimentally verified for internal pressure loading of a straight pipe with a longitudinal surface defect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]