The resistance to fracture of steel for bridge fabrication is generally measured by the Charpy V-notch test. The grade of material, thickness of material, service temperature, and method of fastening (riveted, bolted, or welded construction) are considered in specifying the impact energy and temperature for the material. Impact requirements for A36 steel are given in Table 11.34 for non-fracture critical members and for fracture critical members. Note that the impact test requirements are more severe for FCMs. These and other requirements are provided in tabular form in the AREMA Manual, Chapter 15. Attention is directed to the requirements for welded fabrication.
