What Does
Creep Depth Mean?
Creep depth refers to the total distance of material deformation from a metal's surface towards its base at a given temperature. The greater the creep depth, the more deformation there is that negatively impacts a material. This may lead to increased corrosion or fractures.
Corrosionpedia Explains Creep Depth
Creep depth may be observed empirically by the use of a creep test, which helps to document various material behaviors when materials are subjected to forces. This ensures the materials are used in a safe and practical manner to prevent material failure.
Creep occurs over three main stages: primary, secondary and tertiary. The primary stage occurs at the beginning of the testing period with transient deformation at a varying rate. The secondary stage is the point where deformation becomes more continuous and steady state. The tertiary stage is the point where deformation accelerates and the specimen fractures, ultimately ending the test.