Determination of correlation parameters for evaluation of mechanical properties by Small Punch Test and Automated Ball Indentation Test for Zr–2.5% Nb pressure tube material

•Empirical correlations for mechanical property evaluation of Zr–2.5% Nb by SPT and ABI determined.•Correlation parameters have been established as a function of loading direction.•Difference in slopes of directional correlation fits indicates effect of anisotropy.•Slopes of correlation fits indicated good sensitivity of miniature techniques to wide range of microstructures.