Stress-Strain Testing

The specimen is situatated in between a load cell and a moving crosshead, with an extensometer attached. More details in text description below.
Testing stress-strain.

This image presents a comprehensive overview of tensile testing, featuring three key visual elements that illustrate both the equipment and the specimen used in the process.

The first element is a diagram of a typical tensile test machine, which includes labeled components such as the load cell at the top, the extensometer and specimen in the center, and the moving crosshead at the bottom. During testing, the crosshead moves downward, applying tension to the specimen while the load cell and extensometer measure force and elongation, respectively.

The second element is a photograph of a real tensile test machine, specifically the HK10K model by Tinius Olsen. This image provides a real-world view of the equipment, helping to connect the schematic diagram with its physical counterpart.

The third element is a diagram of a typical tensile specimen, showing standardized dimensions used in testing. These include a reduced section length of 2 1/4 inches, a diameter of 0.505 inches, a gauge length of 2 inches, and a fillet radius of 3/8 inch. These dimensions are critical for ensuring consistency and accuracy in tensile strength measurements.

Credit: Callister & Rethwisch 5e. 

A typical stress-strain testing apparatus is shown in the figure above, along with the typical geometry of a tensile test specimen. During a tensile test, the sample is slowly pulled while the resulting change in length and the applied force are recorded. Using the original length and surface area a stress-strain diagram can be generated.

To Read

Now that I have introduced stress, please go to your e-textbook and read the first two sections (pages 65 to 70 in Chapter 4 of Materials for Today's World, Custom Edition for Penn State University) of this lesson's reading. When finished with the reading proceed to the next web page.