---
term: "Absorbed Impact Energy"
category: "impact-testing"
shortDefinition: "Kinetic energy lost by the pendulum striker when a notched specimen fractures, reported in joules after friction corrections per Charpy or Izod methods."
formula: "KV = E0 − E1"
relatedStandards: ["ISO 148-1","ASTM E23"]
url: "https://vectorbtc.com.tr/resources/glossary/absorbed-energy/"
---

## What it measures

**Absorbed energy** is the energy dissipated in **notch fracture** during a pendulum impact test. It is a screening toughness metric for metals and some plastics, not a direct fracture mechanics parameter.

## How it is tested

A calibrated pendulum releases from a fixed height, strikes the specimen, and records rise after fracture. Machine software or tables convert angle/height to energy with periodic verification using certified reference specimens.

## Standards and reporting

Report method (Charpy V, Izod), specimen size, and temperature. Sub-size specimens require notation per standard (e.g., KV2 for 10×10 mm Charpy).

## Common errors

Worn strikers, loose anvils, incorrect notch orientation, and neglecting friction calibration bias energy low or high.