Abstract: The size effect of tension round bars with circumferential crack was described and used to measure the plane-strain fracture toughness K_(1c) of median or low strength steel.The size of cylindrical specimen required for K_(1c) measurement is much smaller than that of standard specimen.The J-integral values of the cylindrical sqecimens were calculated to characterize the size effect.The finite element calculution and fracture morphology analysis have been conducted to eyplain the fact that smaller cylindrical specimen could be used to measure K_(1c) of median or low strength steel.

Key words: median or low strength steel, fracture touglmess, round bar specimen