Section 11.2 of ASTM B187 covers the bend testing requirements for copper bus bar, rod, and shapes. The test specimen is bent around a mandrel of specified diameter to evaluate ductility.
The test determines whether the copper product can be formed without cracking or surface defects. The mandrel diameter is related to the product thickness, with the specific ratio depending on the copper type and temper.
Bend testing is important for bus bar applications where the copper must be formed to fit electrical equipment. The absence of cracks or surface breaks after bending indicates that the material has adequate ductility for fabrication.