The test procedure generally includes the following steps:
- Sample Preparation: Cut pipe specimens of specified length and condition them (typically at 0°C, 23°C, or -10°C depending on the standard).
- Setup and Calibration: The impact height and striker mass are preset on the machine based on pipe diameter and material type.
- Impact Testing: The hammer is automatically lifted and released to fall freely along vertical rails and strike the specimen.
- Result Recording: Each sample is inspected for visible damage. The machine records impact force, number of failures, and optional force-displacement curves.
- Data Analysis: The failure rate is calculated. If less than a defined percentage of samples fail (e.g., 10%), the batch passes.