Abstract: Fatigue limit testing method for specimens comprising subjecting a specimen (10) to be tested to successive test blocks (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7), each test block (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7) comprising applying to the specimen successive cyclic loads according to load parameters with an amplitude bigger than the load parameters of cyclic loads of the preceding test block; subjecting said specimen to successive deformation tests (a, b, c, d, e, f), each deformation test being performed between two successive test blocks and comprising the application of a isolated specific load to the specimen and performing deformation measurements from said element while being subjected to said specific load; and characterizing a fatigue behavior of the specimen considering at least a variation occurring on the successive deformation measurements and considering the load parameters of cyclic loads preceding each deformation measurement.

Abstract: The device for preparing sheet specimens comprises a base (1) for placing on it a sheet specimen (2) and a cutting punch (3) for cutting sheared cracks or sharp notches in said sheet specimen (2). Preferably, said cutting punch (3) comprises a beveled lower end (31) and/or a central vertical groove (32). Permits the cracks to be formed cutting directly the sheet, and not by cyclic loading, so that the preparation of the sheet specimen takes a reduced time in comparison with the conventional devices.