Brittleness

Definition: Brittleness is a material's tendency to snap or shatter suddenly without stretching first.

The Danger: A brittle pipe won't bulge if there is too much pressure; it will explode.

What causes it?

• Cold Temperatures: Some steels become brittle in freezing weather.

• High Carbon: More carbon makes steel harder but more likely to snap.

Testing: We use the Charpy Impact Test to ensure pipes are tough enough to handle shocks.