The drift expanding test checks the ability of metallic tubes to undergo plastic deformation and, for welded tubes, the soundness of the weld seam. A conical mandrel is pressed into the end of a ring-shaped specimen cut from the tube until the outside diameter reaches the increase specified in the product standard. The expanded area is then examined visually for cracks, tears and separation.
The test is performed with a method accredited by TÜRKAK under TS EN ISO/IEC 17025 (TS EN ISO 8493); results are issued as an accredited test report.
Assessed Features
- Outside diameter after expansion and percentage increase
- Cracks, tears or laminations in the expanded area
- Condition of the weld seam on welded tubes
Applied Standard
- TS EN ISO 8493 – Metallic materials, tube, drift-expanding test
Applications
- Seamless and welded steel tubes (e.g. EN 10216 and EN 10217 series)
- Heat exchanger, boiler and condenser tubes
- Tubes to be expanded or flared in service
Specimen
The specimen is a piece cut square from the tube end; specimen length and mandrel angle (usually 30°, 45° or 60°) follow the product standard. The required expansion is defined by the product standard or order specification; please state it in your request.