For life tests on PVC-U pipes Woehler curves were determined at a constant R-value (R=0.2, 0.4, 0.6). Investigations include the effect of an intermediate tempering at 60 C. The hard- and software applied for the dynamical tests allow not only the record of strengths but at the same time also the record of sample deformation. From the measured hysteresis values the beginning of the damage, e.g. by crack formation, can be derived. Hysteresis values are more sensitive to starting damages than deformation values. Parameters effecting hysteresis and crack formation during test conditions are discussed. The obtained results can be used for the dimensioning of plastic pipes. (WEN)SIGLEAvailable from TIB Hannover: F94B0818 / FIZ - Fachinformationszzentrum Karlsruhe / TIB - Technische InformationsbibliothekArbeitsgemeinschaft Industrieller Forschungsvereinigungen e.V., Koeln (Germany)DEGerman