Tensile Testing Machine

Tensile Testing

An Introduction to Tensile Testing

Tensile testing is a critical aspect of quality assurance within the construction materials industry, serving as a fundamental mechanical evaluation technique globally adopted by engineers and materials scientists. This method involves subjecting a material sample to controlled tension until it breaks, allowing for the assessment of its mechanical properties. In an industry where safety and reliability are paramount, tensile testing offers valuable insights into how materials respond to stress. It plays a key role in aiding product designers in making informed decisions about material usage, ensuring structures are designed with optimal strength and durability.
universal testing machine 1000kn

Why Perform Tensile Test


Tensile testing is a crucial tool for material selection and validation in various industries. It ensures that materials, whether for tire rubber elasticity or surgical sutures' strength, meet specific performance criteria. As materials face diverse mechanical challenges, tensile testing becomes vital for designing robust and reliable products. Quality assurance departments rely on it to verify that batches meet specifications, preventing defects and maintaining a manufacturer's reputation.

In construction, tensile testing is essential for ensuring the integrity and reliability of materials. By subjecting samples to controlled tension, properties like ultimate tensile strength, yield strength, and modulus of elasticity are determined. This information guides decisions about a material's suitability for specific applications, aiding in material selection, quality control, and design optimization. Tensile testing is a proactive measure to identify weaknesses, ensuring the use of high-quality materials for safe and durable structures.

How to Perform a Tensile Test: Basic Principles

An Introduction to the Basic Principles of Tensile Testing

 
universal testing machine 1000kn


Tensile Testing Machine

 



1. Twin Column Frame

The twin-column frame is the structural component of the UTM that provides support for the various testing components. It typically consists of two vertical columns that support the crosshead, where the load is applied to the specimen.

 


2. Magnetic Control Unit:

The Magnetic Control Unit is responsible for controlling and adjusting the speed and movement of the crosshead.  It is a magnetic particle brake system that provides precise control over the loading and unloading phases during a test.

 


3. Load Cell

The load cell is a crucial component that measures the force or load applied to the specimen during a test. It converts the mechanical force into an electrical signal that can be interpreted and recorded by the testing machine.

 


4. Auxiliary Unit

The auxiliary unit refers to additional components that enhance the capabilities of the UTM. This includes accessories like grips, fixtures, or heating/cooling systems that are specifically designed for different types of tests or materials.

 


5. Emergency Stop

The emergency stop is a safety feature that allows the immediate cessation of the testing procedure in case of any unexpected or dangerous situations. It is crucial for preventing damage to the testing machine, and specimens, or ensuring the safety of operators.

 

 

6. Software

The software is the interface that controls the UTM, allowing users to set up, monitor, and analyze tests. It provides a user-friendly platform to input test parameters, start and stop tests, and collect data.

 

 

Setting Up Tensile Test

Tensile tests are conducted using universal testing machines, equipped with load cells, testing software, and specialized grips and accessories. The load frame, software, load cell, grips, and strain measurement devices collectively ensure accurate and standardized testing across various materials and products.

1. Test Method Selection

universal testing machine 1000kn


The selection of an appropriate test method is critical for obtaining accurate and meaningful results in material testing. Different materials often necessitate adherence to specific testing standards, such as ASTM, ISO, or industry-specific guidelines. This ensures that testing conditions are standardized and comparable across various materials, promoting consistency. Choosing the right test method involves configuring parameters like test speed, specimen measurements, and end criteria within the testing software, further enhancing the reliability and relevance of the obtained results.

2. Preparing Specimens

universal testing machine 1000kn


The quality and consistency of specimens significantly impact the accuracy of tensile test results, necessitating careful preparation to eliminate variables that could affect the outcome. Standardized specimen preparation is crucial for accurate testing, with materials often having specific requirements outlined by organizations such as ASTM and ISO. This involves precise cutting and shaping to ensure specimens conform to the specified dimensions and geometry, commonly shaped as dog bones with prescribed measurements for shoulders, gage length, and overall specimen size. Consistent specimen preparation is essential to ensure reliable comparisons between batches and manufacturers.

3. Inserting Specimen into Grips

universal testing machine 1000kn


Ensuring the correct alignment and secure grip of specimens is crucial for accurate testing results. Different materials may require specific grip types and surfaces to optimize performance. Alignment devices are employed to assist in the proper insertion of specimens into grips, guaranteeing uniform loading and accurate results. The grips must securely hold the specimen without causing deformation or slippage during the test, emphasizing the importance of careful attention to grip alignment and pressure distribution for consistent and reliable testing.

4. Strain Measurement Devices

universal testing machine 1000kn


Strain measurement devices, including extensometers, play a crucial role in comprehending how a material deforms under stress. These devices, such as strain gauges and extensometers, accurately measure changes in specimen length during testing, offering precise data on the material's response to applied forces. The calibration and correct placement of these devices are critical steps in obtaining reliable and valuable strain measurements for comprehensive analysis.

5. Starting Test

universal testing machine 1000kn


The initiation of a tensile test involves activating the testing software, prompting the machine to apply controlled tension to the specimen. Once the specimen is in place and all parameters are set, the testing machine systematically applies a controlled force until the specimen fractures. Continuous monitoring of load and displacement throughout this process allows for the creation of a stress-strain curve, providing valuable insights into the material's behavior under stress during the entire testing procedure.


ASIA LEADER IN
MATERIAL TESTING EQUIPMENT

Tensile Test Data Analysis

Understanding the Mechanical Properties of Materials

 

Analyzing tensile test data provides a comprehensive understanding of a material's tensile properties. The stress-strain curve reveals key parameters, including ultimate tensile strength, Hooke's Law behavior, modulus of elasticity, yield strength, and strain.

Image


Tensile Test Data Analysis

 



Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS)

The Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS) is the maximum stress a material can endure during testing, representing the point just before failure. Understanding this crucial property is essential for assessing a material's ability to withstand extreme forces and is vital for designing structures with appropriate safety margins. The UTS serves as a key parameter in evaluating a material's capacity to resist maximum stress and avoid failure under demanding conditions.

 


Hooke's Law and Modulus of Elasticity

Hooke's Law elucidates the linear correlation between stress and strain within the elastic deformation region of a material. This law describes the proportional relationship between these two factors. Concurrently, the Modulus of Elasticity (Young's Modulus) quantifies a material's stiffness within this linear region, offering valuable insights into its capacity to revert to its original shape after the removal of stress. Both Hooke's Law and the Modulus of Elasticity serve as essential parameters, aiding engineers in predicting and understanding how a material will deform under various loads.

 


Yield Strength

Yield strength is the stress at which a material begins to exhibit plastic deformation, marking the point at which plastic deformation initiates. This property is essential for determining a material's ability to return to its original shape after experiencing stress, providing vital insights into how the material behaves under different stress conditions.

 


Offset Method and Alternate Moduli

For materials with less-defined linear regions, alternative methods such as the offset method and alternate moduli (such as secant and tangent moduli) are employed to determine yield strength and modulus of elasticity. The offset method entails defining a specific strain offset from the elastic region to determine yield strength, while alternate moduli, like the tangent or secant moduli, offer alternative approaches to calculating material properties from the stress-strain curve.

 


Strain

Measuring the amount of stretch or elongation a specimen undergoes during testing provides valuable information about a material's deformation characteristics. Strain, which measures the deformation of a material relative to its original dimensions, offers insight into how a material responds to stress. Both engineering and true strain expressions provide different perspectives on material elongation. This understanding is crucial for predicting a material's behavior and determining its suitability for specific applications.

 

 

 

Image

Tensile Testing Equipment

Systems, Components, and Parts

 

Tensile testing machines, ranging from tabletop to floor models, play a critical role in ensuring accurate and reliable testing across different force capacities. NL Scientific and Industrial Series servohydraulic systems exemplify the diverse capabilities available for conducting a wide range of tests on various materials, from low-force applications to high-strength metals and composites.

 

low-force universal testing machine
Universal Testing Systems up to 300 kN 

Choose our available tensile machines with load capacities of 3kN, 10kN, 20kN, 50kN, 100kN, 200kN, and 300kN.
high-force universal testing machine
Industrial Universal Testing Systems up to 2000 kN 

Choose our available tensile machines with load capacities
of 300kN, 600kN, 1000kN, 1200kN, 1500kN, and 2000kN.

Universal Testing Machine Accessories

Universal Testing Machine Accessories, comprising fixtures and grips, extensometers, and load cells, are integral components that augment the capabilities of Universal Testing Machines (UTMs). Fixtures and grips provide a stable and secure arrangement for holding specimens during a variety of tests, ensuring precision and repeatability in results. Extensometers measure changes in specimen dimensions, offering valuable data on deformation and strain during the testing process. Load cells serve as transducers, converting the applied force into electrical signals for accurate force measurement.

Test Fixtures and Grips

test fixtures and grips

Extensometer

extensometer

Load Cell

load cells

Tensile Fixtures and Grips

For Testing Plastics, Metals, Composites, Elastomers, Textiles, and Components

 

Winding Grip

electromechanical-universal-testing-machine

3 & 4 Point Bending Jig

universal-testing-machine-3kn

Twin Adjustable Aluminium Vise Grip

universal-testing-machine-20kn

Wrap Grip

universal-testing-machine-20kn

Flat Adjustable Grip

electromechanical-universal-testing-machine

One Touch Wedge Grip

universal-testing-machine-3kn

Briquette Holding Grip

universal-testing-machine-20kn

Wire & Cable Winding Grip

universal-testing-machine-20kn

Metallic Wedge Grip

electromechanical-universal-testing-machine

Easy Clamp & Release Grip

universal-testing-machine-3kn

Tensile Testing Standard

Standards for Testing Plastics, Elastomers, and Metals

 

  1. ASTM A370 | Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products:

    • This standard provides a comprehensive set of test methods and definitions for the mechanical testing of steel products. It covers procedures for tension, bend, and impact testing, as well as terms and definitions related to the mechanical properties of steel.

  2. ASTM A416 | Standard Specification for Low-Relaxation, Seven-Wire Steel Strand for Prestressed Concrete:

    • This specification outlines the requirements for low-relaxation, seven-wire steel strands used in prestressed concrete applications. It includes specifications for dimensions, mechanical properties, and testing methods to ensure the quality of the steel strand.

  3. ASTM A48 | Standard Specification for Gray Iron Castings:

    • This standard specifies the requirements for gray iron castings, including dimensions, chemical composition, and mechanical properties. Gray iron is a common material used in various industrial applications.

  4. ASTM A746 | Standard Specification for Ductile Iron Gravity Sewer Pipe:

    • The standard provides specifications for ductile iron gravity sewer pipes, including material requirements, dimensions, and testing methods. Ductile iron pipes are known for their strength and durability in sewer systems.

  5. ASTM A996 | Standard Specification for Rail-Steel and Axle-Steel Deformed Bars for Concrete Reinforcement:

    • This specification outlines the requirements for rail-steel and axle-steel deformed bars used in concrete reinforcement. The standard covers dimensions, mechanical properties, and testing methods to ensure the bars' suitability for reinforcing concrete structures.

  6. ASTM C297 | Standard Test Method for Flatwise Tensile Strength of Sandwich Constructions:

    • This test method determines the flatwise tensile strength of sandwich constructions, commonly used in aerospace and structural applications. It involves subjecting a sandwich panel to tension to assess its strength in this direction.

  7. ASTM D1037 | Standard Test Methods for Evaluating Properties of Wood-Base Fiber and Particle Panel Materials:

    • This standard provides test methods for assessing the physical and mechanical properties of wood-based fiber and particle panel materials, including plywood and particleboard. Tests cover aspects like strength, stiffness, and density.

  8. ASTM D1414 | Standard Test Methods for Rubber O-Rings:

    • These test methods outline procedures for evaluating the physical properties of rubber O-rings, including tensile strength, elongation, and hardness. O-rings are crucial components in sealing applications.

  9. ASTM D1708 | Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics by Use of Microtensile Specimens:

    • This test method specifies procedures for determining the tensile properties of plastics using micro tensile specimens. It is particularly useful when only small amounts of material are available.

  10. ASTM D2256 | Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Yarns by the Single-Strand Method:

    • This standard provides a method for determining the tensile properties of yarns, commonly used in textiles, by using the single-strand method. It assesses characteristics such as strength and elongation.

  11. ASTM D3039 | Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Polymer Matrix Composite Materials:

    • This test method outlines procedures for determining the tensile properties of polymer matrix composite materials, including strength, modulus, and elongation. These materials are widely used in aerospace and automotive applications.

  12. ASTM D4018 | Standard Test Methods for Properties of Continuous Filament Carbon and Graphite Fiber Tows:

    • These test methods provide procedures for evaluating the properties of continuous filament carbon and graphite fiber tows. Key properties include tensile strength and modulus.

  13. ASTM D412 | Standard Test Methods for Vulcanized Rubber and Thermoplastic Elastomers—Tension:

    • This standard specifies methods for testing the tensile properties of vulcanized rubber and thermoplastic elastomers under tension. It assesses characteristics such as tensile strength, elongation, and modulus.

  14. ASTM D4632 | Standard Test Method for Grab Breaking Load and Elongation of Geotextiles:

    • This test method determines the grab-breaking load and elongation of geotextiles, which are materials used for soil stabilization, erosion control, and other civil engineering applications.

  15. ASTM D5034 | Standard Test Method for Breaking Strength and Elongation of Textile Fabrics (Grab Test):

    • This test method measures the breaking strength and elongation of textile fabrics using a grab test. It assesses the material's resistance to tensile forces.

  16. ASTM D5035 | Standard Test Method for Breaking Force and Elongation of Textile Fabrics (Strip Method):

    • Similar to the grab test, this method measures the breaking force and elongation of textile fabrics but using a strip method. It provides an alternative approach for assessing fabric strength.

  17. ASTM D5766 | Standard Test Method for Open-Hole Tensile Strength of Polymer Matrix Composite Laminates:

    • This test method determines the open-hole tensile strength of polymer matrix composite laminates. It assesses the material's performance under tension when a hole is present.

  18. ASTM D5961 | Standard Test Method for Bearing Response of Polymer Matrix Composite Laminates:

    • This standard outlines a test method for evaluating the bearing response of polymer matrix composite laminates. It assesses how the material behaves under compressive loads.

  19. ASTM D638 | Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics:

    • This widely used standard provides procedures for testing the tensile properties of plastics, including modulus, strength, and elongation. It is fundamental for understanding the mechanical behavior of plastic materials.

  20. ASTM D7269 | Standard Test Methods for Tensile Testing of Aramid Yarns:

    • This standard specifies test methods for evaluating the tensile properties of aramid yarns, which are high-strength synthetic fibers often used in applications requiring exceptional tensile strength.

  21. ASTM D882 | Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Thin Plastic Sheeting:

    • This test method provides procedures for determining the tensile properties of thin plastic sheeting. It is crucial for assessing the material's strength and elongation characteristics.

  22. ASTM D885 | Standard Test Methods for Tire Cords, Tire Cord Fabrics, and Industrial Filament Yarns:

    • This standard outlines test methods for evaluating the tensile properties of tire cords, tire cord fabrics, and industrial filament yarns. These materials are critical components in the manufacturing of tires and industrial products.

  23. ASTM F2150 | Tensile Testing Polymer Hydrogels:

    • This standard focuses on the tensile testing of polymer hydrogels. Tensile testing helps assess the mechanical properties of hydrogels, which are materials with high water content and find applications in medical and biotechnological fields.

  24. ASTM F606 | Tensile Testing of Fasteners, Washers, Direct Tension Indicators, and Rivets:

    • This standard provides guidelines for the tensile testing of fasteners, washers, direct tension indicators, and rivets. It ensures these components meet specific mechanical requirements for various applications.

  25. ASTM F2516 | Standard Test Method for Tension Testing of Nickel-Titanium Superelastic Materials:

    • This standard outlines a test method for tension testing of nickel-titanium superelastic materials. Superelastic materials, like Nitinol, exhibit unique mechanical properties, and this test method assesses their behavior under tension.

  26. ASTM E8 | Standard Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Materials:

    • This widely recognized standard provides methods for conducting tension tests on metallic materials to determine key properties such as yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, and elongation. It is applicable to various metals and alloys.

  1. ISO 10319 | Wide-width tensile test of geosynthetics:

    • This ISO standard specifies the procedure for conducting wide-width tensile tests on geosynthetics. Geosynthetics are materials used in civil engineering for applications like soil stabilization and erosion control.

  2. ISO 10555 | Tensile testing of sterile and single-use intravascular catheters:

    • This ISO standard addresses the tensile testing of sterile and single-use intravascular catheters. Tensile testing helps ensure the reliability and safety of these medical devices during use.

  3. ISO 11193 | Tensile testing of single-use medical gloves:

    • This ISO standard outlines the procedure for conducting tensile tests on single-use medical gloves. It assesses the strength and elongation of the gloves to ensure they meet safety and performance requirements.

  4. ISO 13934 | Tensile testing of fabrics (grab method):

    • This ISO standard provides a method for conducting tensile tests on fabrics using the grab method. It assesses the breaking force and elongation of fabrics, important for applications such as apparel and textiles.

  5. ISO 15630 | Testing steel for the reinforcement and prestressing of concrete:

    • This ISO standard specifies the testing procedures for steel used in the reinforcement and prestressing of concrete. It ensures the steel meets the required mechanical properties for these critical construction applications.

  6. ISO 1798 | Tensile strength and elongation at break of flexible cellular polymeric materials:

    • This ISO standard outlines the method for determining the tensile strength and elongation at break of flexible cellular polymeric materials. It is relevant for materials like foams and elastomers.

  7. ISO 1926 | Tensile properties of rigid cellular plastics:

    • This ISO standard provides procedures for determining the tensile properties of rigid cellular plastics. It helps assess the material's behavior under tension and is applicable to various industries, including packaging.

  8. ISO 2062 | Breaking force and elongation at break of yarns:

    • This ISO standard specifies the method for determining the breaking force and elongation at break of yarns. It is crucial for assessing the strength and stretch characteristics of yarns used in textiles.

  9. ISO 3183 | Tensile testing of pipe and tube:

    • This ISO standard outlines procedures for conducting tensile tests on pipes and tubes. It is essential for evaluating the mechanical properties of materials used in piping systems.

  10. ISO 37 | Tensile properties of vulcanized or thermoplastic rubber:

    • This ISO standard provides methods for determining the tensile properties of vulcanized or thermoplastic rubber. It assesses characteristics such as tensile strength, elongation, and modulus.

  11. ISO 527-2 | Tensile properties of plastics:

    • This ISO standard specifies the method for determining the tensile properties of plastics, including modulus, strength, and elongation. It is a fundamental test for understanding the mechanical behavior of plastic materials.

  12. ISO 527-3 | Tensile testing of thin plastic films and sheets:

    • This ISO standard provides procedures for conducting tensile tests on thin plastic films and sheets. It is crucial for assessing the strength and elongation characteristics of these materials.

  13. ISO 527-4 | Tensile properties of isotropic and orthotropic fiber-reinforced plastic composites:

    • This ISO standard outlines methods for determining the tensile properties of isotropic and orthotropic fiber-reinforced plastic composites. It helps assess the performance of these advanced materials under tension.

  14. ISO 6892 | Tensile testing of metals and metallic materials:

    • This ISO standard provides procedures for conducting tensile tests on metals and metallic materials. It is a fundamental test for understanding the mechanical properties of metals, including yield strength and ultimate tensile strength.

  1. ANSI/AWS B4.0 | Standard methods for mechanical testing of welds:

    • This ANSI/AWS standard provides methods for the mechanical testing of welds. It ensures the quality and integrity of welds in various applications, including construction and manufacturing.

  2. BS EN 319 | Tensile strength of particleboard and fiberboard:

    • This British Standard (BS EN) specifies procedures for determining the tensile strength of particleboard and fiberboard. It is important for assessing the structural properties of these wood-based materials.

  3. BS EN 2561 | Tensile testing of carbon fiber reinforced plastics:

    • This British Standard (BS EN) outlines procedures for conducting tensile tests on carbon fiber reinforced plastics. It helps evaluate the mechanical properties of these materials widely used in aerospace and automotive applications.

  4. BS EN 2597 | Tensile properties of unidirectional carbon fiber reinforced plastics:

    • This British Standard (BS EN) specifies procedures for determining the tensile properties of unidirectional carbon fiber reinforced plastics. It is crucial for assessing the strength and performance of these materials in specific orientations.

  5. IS 1608 | Tensile testing metallic materials at ambient temperature:

    • This Indian Standard (IS) provides methods for conducting tensile tests on metallic materials at ambient temperature. It is fundamental for understanding the mechanical properties of metals under normal operating conditions.

  6. TAPPI 220, 456, & 494 | Tensile testing of paper:

    • These TAPPI standards provide methods for conducting tensile tests on paper. They assess the strength and elongation properties of paper, which are crucial for various industries, including packaging and printing.

Order Universal Testing Machine | ENQUIRY NOW

Each test can help business to better understand the performance and quality of materials, components, or products. This is an essential aspect of product design and development. With the results of a tensile, compression or flexural test, can better adapt, optimize or redesign a products.

With the advance features and capabalities, these machines are perfect for businesses of all size that need high-quality testing equipment for material and engineering tests.

NL Scientific

Chat Us

We assure you that we will provide the best solution that you will need when it comes to material tests.
Image
16, Lorong Sungai Puloh 1A/KU 6,
Taman Teknologi Gemilang.
Kawasan Perindustrian Sungai Puloh,
42100 Klang, Selangor, Malaysia

INFOS

Copyright © 2025 NL Scientific Instruments Sdn. Bhd. 881121-P. All Rights Reserved.
 
 

Register Form

Cancel

Sign in to your account

Register Form

Cancel

Sign in to your account