ABSTRACT
A lot of research is being focused on the miniaturized sample techniques such as Ball Indentation (BI), shear punch, small punch creep and impression creep. The BI technique has been used for the evaluation of tensile properties such as Yield Strength (YS), Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS), strength coefficient (K), strain hardening exponent (n),% elongation and hardness of the material at room temperature as well as at high temperatures. The technique requires a minimal material for testing, and hence can be used to study the remaining life assessment of in-service components of nuclear and thermal power plants. The system has to be standardized for a particular material to evaluate the mechanical properties. Efforts have been taken to convert the load-depth data obtained from the BI test into true stress-true plastic strain data using empirical relations (Mathew et al. 1999, Murty et al. 1998, Mathew & Murty 1999, Murty, & Mathew 2004). The mechanical properties across the weld joint, as well as various regions in heataffected zones, have been studied using this technique (Miraglia 1997, Murty et al. 1999).
