CB 3380-1991: Macro Etching Test Method for Marine Steel Weld Joints

Standard Overview

Standard Number: CB 3380-1991

Title: Macro Etching Test Method for Macrostructural Defects in Marine Steel Weld Joints

Industry: Marine Engineering / Shipbuilding

Status: Chinese Shipbuilding Industry Standard

Scope

This standard specifies the macro etching test method for examining macrostructural defects in welded joints of marine steel structures. The method is used to reveal defects such as:

  • Incomplete penetration
  • Cracks and fissures
  • Porosity and gas pockets
  • Slag inclusions
  • Weld bead profile irregularities
  • Heat-affected zone characteristics

Test Principle

The macro etching test involves cutting a cross-section of the weld joint, polishing the surface, and then etching it with an appropriate chemical reagent to reveal the macrostructure. The etched surface is then visually examined or photographed for defect analysis.

Key Test Parameters

Parameter Specification
Sample Preparation Cross-section perpendicular to weld direction
Surface Finish Polished to mirror finish before etching
Etching Reagent Acid solution (typically 4% Nital or similar)
Etching Time As specified in standard procedure
Examination Method Visual inspection with magnification (5-10x)

Applications

This test method is widely used in:

  • Ship hull construction quality control
  • Marine pipeline weld inspection
  • Offshore structure fabrication
  • Welding procedure qualification
  • Failure analysis of welded components

Download Original Standard

📄 Original PDF Document (Chinese)

Download the complete CB 3380-1991 standard document:

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Related Standards

  • GB/T 2653-2008: Welding joint tensile test
  • GB/T 2654-2008: Welding joint hardness test
  • CB/T 3558-2005: Radiographic inspection of ship steel welds

Published: 2026-05-08

Category: Marine Engineering Standards / Quality Control

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