Designation: D790 − 15´2

Standard Test Methods for

Flexural Properties of Unreinforced and Reinforced Plastics
and Electrical Insulating Materials1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D790; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.

ε1 NOTE—Editorially corrected 4.3 in January 2016.

ε2 NOTE—Editorial corrections were made in February 2016.

1. Scope* 1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the

1.1 These test methods are used to determine the flexural standard. The values provided in parentheses are for informa-
properties of unreinforced and reinforced plastics, including tion only.
high modulus composites and electrical insulating materials 1.5 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes
utilizing a three-point loading system to apply a load to a that provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes
simply supported beam (specimen). The method is generally (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered
applicable to both rigid and semi-rigid materials, but flexural as requirements of the standard.
strength cannot be determined for those materials that do not 1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
break or yield in the outer surface of the test specimen within safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
the 5.0 % strain limit. responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
1.2 Test specimens of rectangular cross section are injection priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
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molded or, cut from molded or extruded sheets or plates, or cut bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
from molded or extruded shapes. Specimens must be solid and NOTE 3—This standard and ISO 178 address the same subject matter,
uniformly rectangular. The specimen rests on two supports and but differ in technical content.
is loaded by means of a loading nose midway between the
supports. 2. Referenced Documents
1.3 Measure deflection in one of two ways; using crosshead 2.1 ASTM Standards:2
position or a deflectometer. Please note that studies have shown D618 Practice for Conditioning Plastics for Testing
that deflection data obtained with a deflectometer will differ D638 Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics
from data obtained using crosshead position. The method of D883 Terminology Relating to Plastics
deflection measurement shall be reported. D4000 Classification System for Specifying Plastic Materi-
als
NOTE 1—Requirements for quality control in production environments
are usually met by measuring deflection using crosshead position.
D4101 Specification for Polypropylene Injection and Extru-
However, more accurate measurement may be obtained by using an sion Materials
deflection indicator such as a deflectometer. D5947 Test Methods for Physical Dimensions of Solid
NOTE 2—Materials that do not rupture by the maximum strain allowed Plastics Specimens
under this test method may be more suited to a 4-point bend test. The basic D6272 Test Method for Flexural Properties of Unreinforced
difference between the two test methods is in the location of the maximum
bending moment and maximum axial fiber stresses. The maximum axial and Reinforced Plastics and Electrical Insulating Materi-
fiber stresses occur on a line under the loading nose in 3-point bending and als by Four-Point Bending
over the area between the loading noses in 4-point bending. A four-point E4 Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
loading system method can be found in Test Method D6272. E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to
Determine the Precision of a Test Method
E2309 Practices for Verification of Displacement Measuring
1
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D20 on
Plastics and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D20.10 on Mechanical
2
Properties. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2015. Published January 2016. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1970. Last previous edition approved in 2010 as D790 – 10. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/D0790-15E02. the ASTM website.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

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 D790 − 15´2
Systems and Devices Used in Material Testing Machines Hookean materials. The equation is valid for obtaining comparison data
and for specification purposes, but only up to a maximum fiber strain of
2.2 ISO Standard:3
5 % in the outer surface of the test specimen for specimens tested by the
ISO 178 Plastics—Determination of Flexural Properties procedures described herein.
NOTE 6—When testing highly orthotropic laminates, the maximum
3. Terminology stress may not always occur in the outer surface of the test specimen.4
3.1 Definitions—Definitions of terms applying to these test Laminated beam theory must be applied to determine the maximum
tensile stress at failure. If Eq 3 is used to calculate stress, it will yield an
methods appear in Terminology D883 and Annex A2 of Test apparent strength based on homogeneous beam theory. This apparent
Method D638. strength is highly dependent on the ply-stacking sequence of highly
orthotropic laminates.
4. Summary of Test Method
5.1.2 Flexural Stress for Beams Tested at Large Support
4.1 A test specimen of rectangular cross section rests on two Spans (σf)—If support span-to-depth ratios greater than 16 to 1
supports in a flat-wise position and is loaded by means of a are used such that deflections in excess of 10 % of the support
loading nose located midway between the supports. Unless span occur, the stress in the outer surface of the specimen for
testing certain laminated materials (see 7 for guidance), a a simple beam is reasonably approximated using equation (Eq
support span-to-depth (of specimen) ratio 16:1 shall be used. 4) in 12.3 (see Note 7).
The specimen is deflected until rupture occurs in the outer
NOTE 7—When large support span-to-depth ratios are used, significant
surface of the test specimen or until a maximum strain (see
end forces are developed at the support noses which will affect the
5.1.6) of 5.0 % is reached, whichever occurs first. moment in a simple supported beam. Eq 4 includes additional terms that
4.2 Procedure A is designed principally for materials that are an approximate correction factor for the influence of these end forces
in large support span-to-depth ratio beams where relatively large deflec-
break at comparatively small deflections and it shall be used for tions exist.
measurement of flexural properties, particularly flexural
modulus, unless the material specification states otherwise. 5.1.3 Flexural Strength (σfM)—Maximum flexural stress
Procedure A employs a strain rate of 0.01 mm/mm/min (0.01 sustained by the test specimen (see Note 6) during a bending

--``````,``,,,```,`,`,```,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
in./in./min) and is the preferred procedure for this test method. test. It is calculated according to Eq 3 or Eq 4. Some materials
that do not break at strains of up to 5 % give a load deflection
4.3 Procedure B is designed principally for those materials curve that shows a point at which the load does not increase
that do not break or yield in the outer surface of the test with an increase in strain, that is, a yield point (Fig. 1, Curve
specimen within the 5.0 % strain limit when Procedure A b), Y. The flexural strength is calculated for these materials by
conditions are used. Procedure B employs a strain rate of 0.10 letting P (in Eq 3 or Eq 4) equal this point, Y.
mm/mm/min (0.10 in./in./min).
5.1.4 Flexural Offset Yield Strength—Offset yield strength is
4.4 Type I tests utilize crosshead position for deflection the stress at which the stress-strain curve deviates by a given
measurement. strain (offset) from the tangent to the initial straight line portion
4.5 Type II tests utilize an instrument (deflectometer) for of the stress-strain curve. The value of the offset must be given
deflection measurement. whenever this property is calculated.
4.6 The procedure used and test type shall be reported NOTE 8—Flexural Offset Yield Strength may differ from flexural
NOTE 4—Comparative tests may be run in accordance with either strength defined in 5.1.3. Both methods of calculation are described in the
procedure, provided that the procedure is found satisfactory for the annex to Test Method D638.
material being tested. Tangent modulus data obtained by Procedure A 5.1.5 Flexural Stress at Break (σfB)—Flexural stress at break
tends to exhibit lower standard deviations than comparable results
obtained by means of Procedure B. of the test specimen during a bending test. It is calculated
according to Eq 3 or Eq 4. Some materials give a load
5. Significance and Use deflection curve that shows a break point, B, without a yield
5.1 Flexural properties as determined by this test method are point (Fig. 1, Curve a) in which case σfB = σfM. Other materials
especially useful for quality control and specification purposes. give a yield deflection curve with both a yield and a break
They include: point, B (Fig. 1, Curve b). The flexural stress at break is
5.1.1 Flexural Stress (σf)—When a homogeneous elastic calculated for these materials by letting P (in Eq 3 or Eq 4)
material is tested in flexure as a simple beam supported at two equal this point, B.
points and loaded at the midpoint, the maximum stress in the 5.1.6 Stress at a Given Strain—The stress in the outer
outer surface of the test specimen occurs at the midpoint. surface of a test specimen at a given strain is calculated in
Flexural stress is calculated for any point on the load-deflection accordance with Eq 3 or Eq 4 by letting P equal the load read
curve using equation (Eq 3) in Section 12 (see Notes 5 and 6). from the load-deflection curve at the deflection corresponding
to the desired strain (for highly orthotropic laminates, see Note
NOTE 5—Eq 3 applies strictly to materials for which stress is linearly 6).
proportional to strain up to the point of rupture and for which the strains
are small. Since this is not always the case, a slight error will be
introduced if Eq 3 is used to calculate stress for materials that are not true
4
For a discussion of these effects, see Zweben, C., Smith, W. S., and Wardle, M.
W., “Test Methods for Fiber Tensile Strength, Composite Flexural Modulus and
3
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St., Properties of Fabric-Reinforced Laminates,” Composite Materials: Testing and
4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org. Design (Fifth Conference), ASTM STP 674, 1979, pp. 228–262.

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 D790 − 15´2
deflection curve. The chosen stress or strain point used for the
determination of the secant shall be reported.
5.1.8.3 Chord Modulus (Ef)—The chord modulus is calcu-
lated from two discrete points on the load deflection curve. The
selected points are to be chosen at two pre-specified stress or
strain points in accordance with the appropriate material
specification or by customer contract. The chosen stress or
strain points used for the determination of the chord modulus
shall be reported. Calculate the chord modulus, Ef using Eq 7
in 12.5.2.
5.2 Experience has shown that flexural properties vary with
specimen depth, temperature, atmospheric conditions, and
strain rate as specified in Procedures A and B.
5.3 Before proceeding with these test methods, refer to the
ASTM specification of the material being tested. Any test
specimen preparation, conditioning, dimensions, or testing
parameters, or combination thereof, covered in the ASTM
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material specification shall take precedence over those men-

tioned in these test methods. Table 1 in Classification System
D4000 lists the ASTM material specifications that currently
exist for plastics.
NOTE 1—Curve a: Specimen that breaks before yielding.
Curve b: Specimen that yields and then breaks before the 5 % strain 6. Apparatus
limit.
Curve c: Specimen that neither yields nor breaks before the 5 % strain 6.1 Testing Machine—A testing machine capable of being
limit. operated at constant rates of crosshead motion over the range
FIG. 1 Typical Curves of Flexural Stress (σf) Versus Flexural indicated and comprised of the following:
Strain (εf) 6.1.1 Load Frame—The stiffness of the testing machine
shall be such that the total elastic deformation of the system
does not exceed 1 % of the total deflection of the test specimen
5.1.7 Flexural Strain, ɛf—Nominal fractional change in the during testing, or appropriate corrections shall be made.
length of an element of the outer surface of the test specimen 6.1.1.1 Fixed Member—A fixed or essentially stationary
at midspan, where the maximum strain occurs. Flexural strain member holding the specimen supports;
is calculated for any deflection using Eq 5 in 12.4. 6.1.1.2 Movable Member—A movable member carrying the
5.1.8 Modulus of Elasticity: loading nose.
5.1.8.1 Tangent Modulus of Elasticity—The tangent modu- 6.1.2 Loading Noses and Supports—The loading nose and
lus of elasticity, often called the “modulus of elasticity,” is the supports shall have cylindrical surfaces.
ratio, within the elastic limit, of stress to corresponding strain. 6.1.2.1 The radii of the loading nose and supports shall be
It is calculated by drawing a tangent to the steepest initial 5.0 6 0.1 mm (0.197 6 0.004 in.) unless otherwise specified in
straight-line portion of the load-deflection curve and using Eq an ASTM material specification or as agreed upon between
6 in 12.5.1 (for highly anisotropic composites, see Note 15). interested parties.
NOTE 9—Shear deflections can seriously reduce the apparent modulus 6.1.2.2 Other Radii for Loading Noses and Supports—
of highly anisotropic composites when they are tested at low span-to- Alternative loading noses and supports are permitted to be used
depth ratios.4 For this reason, a span-to-depth ratio of 60 to 1 is in order to avoid excessive indentation or failure due to stress
recommended for flexural modulus determinations on these composites. concentration directly under the loading nose or if required by
Flexural strength should be determined on a separate set of replicate
specimens at a lower span-to-depth ratio that induces tensile failure in the
an ASTM material specification. If alternative loading nose and
outer fibers of the beam along its lower face. Since the flexural modulus support radii are used, the dimensions of the loading nose and
of highly anisotropic laminates is a critical function of ply-stacking supports shall be clearly identified in the test report and
sequence, it will not necessarily correlate with tensile modulus, which is reference shall be made to any applicable specifications.
not stacking-sequence dependent. (1) Alternative supports shall have a minimum radius of
5.1.8.2 Secant Modulus—The secant modulus is the ratio of 3.2 mm (1⁄8 in.) When testing specimens 3.2 mm or greater in
stress to corresponding strain at any selected point on the depth, the radius of the loading nose and supports are permitted
stress-strain curve, that is, the slope of the straight line that to be up to 1.6 times the specimen depth.
joins the origin and a selected point on the actual stress-strain (2) The arc of the loading nose in contact with the
curve. It shall be expressed in megapascals (pounds per square specimen shall be sufficiently large to prevent contact of the
inch). The selected point is chosen at a pre-specified stress or specimen with the sides of the nose. Alternative loading noses
strain in accordance with the appropriate material specification shall be sufficiently large to prevent contact of the specimen
or by customer contract. It is calculated in accordance with Eq with the sides of the nose. The maximum radius of the loading
6 by letting m equal the slope of the secant to the load- nose shall be no more than four times the specimen depth.

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 D790 − 15´2
6.1.3 Drive Mechanism—A drive mechanism for imparting compression side of the beam. Any necessary polishing of
to the movable member a uniform, controlled velocity with specimens shall be done only in the lengthwise direction of the
respect to the stationary member, with this velocity to be specimen.
regulated as specified in Procedure A or B.
NOTE 11—The value obtained on specimens with machined surfaces
6.1.4 Load Indicator—A suitable load-indicating mecha- may differ from those obtained on specimens with original surfaces.
nism capable of showing the total load applied to specimen
when in position on the flex fixture. This mechanism shall be 7.3 Sheet Materials (Except Laminated Thermosetting Ma-
essentially free of inertia lag at the specified rate of testing and terials and Certain Materials Used for Electrical Insulation,
shall indicate the load with an accuracy of 61 % of the Including Vulcanized Fiber and Glass Bonded Mica):
indicated value, or better. The accuracy of the testing machine 7.3.1 Materials 1.6 mm (1⁄16 in.) or Greater in Thickness—
shall be verified in accordance with Practices E4. Specimen width shall not exceed one fourth of the support span
6.1.5 Deflection Measuring Device—The deflection measur- for specimens greater than 3.2 mm (1⁄8 in.) in depth. Specimens
ing device used shall be selected from the following two 3.2 mm or less in depth shall be 12.7 mm (1⁄2 in.) in width. The
choices: specimen shall be long enough to allow for overhanging on
6.1.5.1 Type I—Crosshead Position Indicating System—A each end of at least 10 % of the support span, but in no case
suitable deflection indicating mechanism capable of showing less than 6.4 mm (1⁄4 in.) on each end. Overhang shall be
the amount of change in crosshead movement. This mechanism sufficient to prevent the specimen from slipping through the
shall be essentially free of inertial lag at the specified rate of supports. A support span of 16 6 1 times the depth of the
testing and shall indicate the crosshead movement. The cross- specimen is used for these specimens.
head position indicating system shall be verified in accordance 7.3.2 Materials Less than 1.6 mm (1⁄16 in.) in Thickness—
with Practice E2309 and minimally meets the requirements of The specimen shall be 50.8 mm (2 in.) long by 12.7 mm (1⁄2 in.)
a Class D system. wide, tested flatwise on a 25.4-mm (1-in.) support span.
6.1.5.2 Type II—Deflection Indicator (Deflectometer)—A NOTE 12—Use of the formulas for simple beams cited in these test
suitable instrument for more accurately determining the deflec- methods for calculating results presumes that beam width is small in
tion of the specimen distance between two designated points. comparison with the support span. Therefore, the formulas do not apply
This instrument shall be essentially free of inertia at the rigorously to these dimensions.
specified speed of testing. The deflection indicator system shall NOTE 13—Where machine sensitivity is such that specimens of these
dimensions cannot be measured, wider specimens or shorter support
be verified in accordance with Practice E2309 and minimally spans, or both, may be used, provided the support span-to-depth ratio is at
meets the requirements of a Class B system. least 14 to 1. All dimensions must be stated in the report (see also Note
12).
NOTE 10—It is desirable, but not essential, that this instrument
automatically record this distance, or any change in it, as a function of the 7.4 Laminated Thermosetting Materials and Sheet and
load on the test specimen or of the elapsed time from the start of the test, Plate Materials Used for Electrical Insulation, Including
or both. If only the latter is obtained, it has been found useful to also
record load-time data.
Vulcanized Fiber and Glass-Bonded Mica—For paper-base and
fabric-base grades over 25.4 mm (1 in.) in nominal thickness,
6.2 Micrometers—Apparatus for measuring the width and the specimens shall be machined on both surfaces to a depth of
thickness of the test specimen shall comply with the require- 25.4 mm. For glass-base and nylon-base grades, specimens
ments of Test Method D5947. over 12.7 mm (0.5 in.) in nominal depth shall be machined on
both surfaces to a depth of 12.7 mm. The support span-to-depth
7. Test Specimens
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ratio shall be chosen such that failures occur in the outer fibers
7.1 Test specimens that are cut from sheets, plates, or of the specimens, due only to the bending moment. As a
molded or extruded shapes, or molded to the desired finished general rule, support span-to-specimen depth ratios of 16:1 are
dimensions are acceptable. The actual dimensions used shall be satisfactory when the ratio of the tensile strength to shear
measured in accordance with Test Methods D5947. The depth strength is less than 8 to 1, but the support span-to-depth ratio
of the specimen shall be defined as the thickness of the must be increased for composite laminates having relatively
material. The depth shall not exceed the width (see Note 11). low shear strength in the plane of the laminate and relatively
The crosssection of the specimens shall be rectangular with high tensile strength parallel to the support span (32:1 or 40:1
opposite sides flat and parallel (60.2 mm) and adjacent sides are recommended). When laminated materials exhibit low
perpendicular along the full length of the specimen. compressive strength perpendicular to the laminations, they
shall be loaded with a large radius loading nose (up to four
7.2 Whenever possible, the original surface of the sheet
times the specimen depth to prevent premature damage to the
shall be unaltered. However, where testing machine limitations
outer fibers.
make it impossible to follow the above criterion on the
unaltered sheet, one or both surfaces shall be machined to 7.5 Molding Materials (Thermoplastics and Thermosets)—
provide the desired dimensions, and the location of the The preferred specimen dimensions for molding materials is
specimens with reference to the total depth shall be noted. 12.7 mm (0.5 in.) wide, 3.2 mm (0.125 in.) thick, and 127 mm
Consequently, any specifications for flexural properties on (5.0 in.) long. They are tested flatwise on the support span,
thicker sheets must state whether the original surfaces are to be resulting in a support span-to-depth ratio of 16:1 (tolerance
retained or not. When only one surface was machined, it must 61). Thicker specimens are to be avoided if they exhibit
be stated whether the machined surface was on the tension or significant sink marks or bubbles when molded.

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 D790 − 15´2
7.6 High-Strength Reinforced Composites, Including Highly 10.1.3 For flexural fixtures that have continuously adjust-
Orthotropic Laminates—The span-to-depth ratio shall be cho- able spans, measure the span accurately to the nearest 0.1 mm
sen such that failure occurs in the outer fibers of the specimens (0.004 in.) for spans less than 63 mm (2.5 in.) and to the nearest
and is due only to the bending moment. As a general rule, 0.3 mm (0.012 in.) for spans greater than or equal to 63 mm
support span-to-depth ratios of 16:1 are satisfactory when the (2.5 in.). Use the actual measured span for all calculations. For
ratio of the tensile strength to shear strength is less than 8 to 1, flexural fixtures that have fixed machined span positions, verify
but the support span-to-depth ratio must be increased for the span distance the same as for adjustable spans at each
composite laminates having relatively low shear strength in the machined position. This distance becomes the span for that
plane of the laminate and relatively high tensile strength position and is used for calculations applicable to all subse-
parallel to the support span (32:1 or 40:1 are recommended). quent tests conducted at that position. See Annex A2 for
For some highly anisotropic composites, shear deformation can information on the determination of and setting of the span.
significantly influence modulus measurements, even at span- 10.1.4 Calculate the rate of crosshead motion as follows and
to-depth ratios as high as 40:1. Hence, for these materials, an set the machine for the rate of crosshead motion as calculated
increase in the span-to-depth ratio to 60:1 is recommended to by Eq 1:
eliminate shear effects when modulus data are required, it R 5 ZL 2 /6d (1)
should also be noted that the flexural modulus of highly
anisotropic laminates is a strong function of ply-stacking where:
sequence and will not necessarily correlate with tensile R = rate of crosshead motion, mm (in.)/min,
modulus, which is not stacking-sequence dependent. L = support span, mm (in.),
d = depth of beam, mm (in.), and
8. Number of Test Specimens Z = rate of straining of the outer fiber, mm/mm/min (in./in./
8.1 Test at least five specimens for each sample in the case min). Z shall be equal to 0.01.
of isotropic materials or molded specimens. In no case shall the actual crosshead rate differ from that
8.2 For each sample of anisotropic material in sheet form, calculated using Eq 1, by more than 610 %.
test at least five specimens cut in the desired direction. For the 10.1.5 Align the loading nose and supports so that the axes
purposes of this test, “lengthwise” designates the principal axis of the cylindrical surfaces are parallel and the loading nose is
of anisotropy and shall be interpreted to mean the direction of midway between the supports. Center the specimen on the
the sheet known to be stronger in flexure. “Crosswise” indi- supports, with the long axis of the specimen perpendicular to
cates the sheet direction known to be the weaker in flexure and the loading nose and supports. The loading nose should be
shall be at 90° to the lengthwise direction. The direction of test, close to, but not in contact with the specimen (see Note 14).
whether it be lengthwise, crosswise, or some angle relative to NOTE 14—The parallelism of the apparatus may be checked by means
these shall be noted in the report. of a plate with parallel grooves into which the loading nose and supports
will fit when properly aligned (see A2.3).
9. Conditioning 10.1.6 Apply the load to the specimen at the specified
9.1 Conditioning—Condition the test specimens in accor- crosshead rate, and record simultaneous load-deflection data.
dance with Procedure A of Practice D618 unless otherwise 10.1.7 Measure deflection either by measurement of the
specified by contract or the relevant ASTM material specifica- motion of the loading nose relative to the supports (crosshead
tion. Conditioning time is specified as a minimum. Tempera- position) (Type I) or by a deflection indicator (deflectometer)
ture and humidity tolerances shall be in accordance with under the specimen in contact with it at the center of the
Section 7 of Practice D618 unless specified differently by support span, the gauge being mounted stationary relative to
contract or material specification. the specimen supports (Type II). Load-deflection curves are
9.2 Test Conditions—Conduct the tests at the same tempera- used to determine the flexural strength, chord or secant
ture and humidity used for conditioning with tolerances in modulus or the tangent modulus of elasticity, and the total
accordance with Section 7 of Practice D618 unless otherwise work as measured by the area under the load-deflection curve.
specified by contract or the relevant ASTM material specifica- Perform the necessary toe compensation (see Annex A1) to
tion. correct for seating and indentation of the specimen and
deflections in the machine.
10. Procedure 10.1.8 Terminate the test when the maximum strain in the
10.1 Procedure A: outer surface of the test specimen has reached 0.05 mm/mm
10.1.1 Use an untested specimen for each measurement. (in./in.) or at break if break occurs prior to reaching the
Measure the width and depth of the specimen to the nearest maximum strain (Notes 15 and 16). The deflection at which
0.03 mm (0.001 in.) at the center of the support span. For this strain will occur is calculated by letting r equal 0.05
specimens less than 2.54 mm (0.100 in.) in depth, measure the mm/mm (in./in.) in Eq 2:
depth to the nearest 0.003 mm (0.0005 in.). These measure- D 5 rL2 /6d (2)
ments shall be made in accordance with Test Methods D5947.
where:
10.1.2 Determine the support span to be used as described in
Section 7 and set the support span to within 1 % of the D = midspan deflection, mm (in.),
determined value. r = strain, mm/mm (in./in.),

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 D790 − 15´2

L = support span, mm (in.), and 12.4 Flexural Strain, εf—Nominal fractional change in the
d = depth of beam, mm (in.). length of an element of the outer surface of the test specimen
NOTE 15—For some materials that do not yield or break within the 5 % at midspan, where the maximum strain occurs. It may be
strain limit when tested by Procedure A, the increased strain rate allowed calculated for any deflection using Eq 5:
by Procedure B (see 10.2) may induce the specimen to yield or break, or
both, within the required 5 % strain limit. ε f 5 6Dd/L 2 (5)
NOTE 16—Beyond 5 % strain, this test method is not applicable. Some
other mechanical property might be more relevant to characterize mate- where:
rials that neither yield nor break by either Procedure A or Procedure B εf = strain in the outer surface, mm/mm (in./in.),
within the 5 % strain limit (for example, Test Method D638 may be D = maximum deflection of the center of the beam, mm
considered). (in.),
10.2 Procedure B: L = support span, mm (in.), and
10.2.1 Use an untested specimen for each measurement. d = depth, mm (in.) of beam tested.
10.2.2 Test conditions shall be identical to those described 12.5 Modulus of Elasticity:
in 10.1, except that the rate of straining of the outer surface of 12.5.1 Tangent Modulus of Elasticity:
the test specimen shall be 0.10 mm/mm (in./in.)/min.
E B 5 L 3 m/4bd 3 (6)
10.2.3 If no break has occurred in the specimen by the time
the maximum strain in the outer surface of the test specimen where:
--``````,``,,,```,`,`,```,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

has reached 0.05 mm/mm (in./in.), discontinue the test (see EB = modulus of elasticity in bending, MPa (psi),
Note 16). L = support span, mm (in.),
b = width of beam tested, mm (in.),
11. Retests
d = depth of beam tested, mm (in.), and
11.1 Values for properties at rupture shall not be calculated m = slope of the tangent to the initial straight-line portion of
for any specimen that breaks at some obvious, fortuitous flaw, the load-deflection curve, N/mm (lbf/in.) of deflection.
unless such flaws constitute a variable being studied. Retests
12.5.2 Chord Modulus (Ef)—
shall be made for any specimen on which values are not
calculated. E f 5 ~ σ f2 2 σ f1 ! / ~ ε f2 2 ε f1 ! (7)

12. Calculation where:

σf2and σf1 = the flexural stresses, calculated from Eq 3 or Eq
12.1 Toe compensation shall be made in accordance with
4 and measured at the predefined points on the
Annex A1 unless it can be shown that the toe region of the
load deflection curve, and εf2 and
curve is not due to the take-up of slack, seating of the
εf1 = the flexural strain values, calculated from Eq 5
specimen, or other artifact, but rather is an authentic material
and measured at the predetermined points on
response.
the load deflection curve.
12.2 Flexural Stress (σf):
12.6 Arithmetic Mean—For each series of tests, the arith-
σ f 5 3PL/2bd2 (3) metic mean of all values obtained shall be calculated to three
where: significant figures and reported as the “average value” for the
particular property in question.
σ = stress in the outer fibers at midpoint, MPa (psi),
P = load at a given point on the load-deflection curve, N 12.7 Standard Deviation—The standard deviation (esti-
(lbf), mated) shall be calculated as follows and be reported to two
L = support span, mm (in.), significant figures:
b = width of beam tested, mm (in.), and
d = depth of beam tested, mm (in.). s5 =~ ( X 2
2 nX̄ 2
! /~n 2 1! (8)
NOTE 17—Eq 3 is not valid if the specimen slips excessively between
the supports. where:
12.3 Flexural Stress for Beams Tested at Large Support s = estimated standard deviation,
Spans (σ f): X = value of single observation,
n = number of observations, and
σ f 5 ~ 3PL/2bd2 ! @ 116 ~ D/L ! 2 2 4 ~ d/L !~ D/L ! # (4) X̄ = arithmetic mean of the set of observations.
where:
13. Report
σf, P, L, b, and d = the same as for Eq 3, and
D = deflection of the centerline of the speci- 13.1 Report the following information:
men at the middle of the support span, 13.1.1 Complete identification of the material tested, includ-
mm (in.). ing type, source, manufacturer’s code number, form, principal
NOTE 18—When large support span-to-depth ratios are used, significant dimensions, and previous history (for laminated materials,
end forces are developed at the support noses, which will affect the ply-stacking sequence shall be reported),
moment in a simple supported beam. Eq 4 includes additional terms that
are an approximate correction factor for the influence of these end forces
13.1.2 Method of specimen preparation,
in large support span-to-depth ratio beams where relatively large deflec- 13.1.3 Direction of cutting and loading specimens, when
tions exist. appropriate,

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13.1.4 Conditioning procedure, TABLE 2 Flexural Modulus
13.1.5 Depth and width of specimen, Values Expressed in units of %
13.1.6 Reference to this international standard, the Proce- Material Mean, 103 psi of 103 psi

dure used (A or B), and type test performed (I or II), for VrA VRB rC RD

example D790–AI ABS 338 4.79 7.69 13.6 21.8

DAP thermoset 485 2.89 7.18 8.15 20.4
13.1.7 Support span length, Cast acrylic 810 13.7 16.1 38.8 45.4
13.1.8 Support span-to-depth ratio if different than 16:1, GR polyester 816 3.49 4.20 9.91 11.9
13.1.9 Radius of supports and loading noses, if different GR 1790 5.52 5.52 15.6 15.6
polycarbonate
than 5 mm. When support and/or loading nose radii other than SMC 1950 10.9 13.8 30.8 39.1
5 mm are used, the results shall be identified as being generated A
Vr = within-laboratory coefficient of variation for the indicated material. It is
by a modified version of this test method and the referring obtained by first pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test
specification referenced as to the geometry used. results from all of the participating laboratories: Sr = [[(s1 )2 + ( s2)2 . . . + ( sn)2]/ n]
1/2 then Vr = (S r divided by the overall average for the material) × 100.
13.1.10 Rate of crosshead motion, B
Vr = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as the coefficient of variation:
13.1.11 Flexural strain at any given stress, average value SR = {Sr2 + SL2 }1/2 where SL is the standard deviation of laboratory means. Then:
and standard deviation, VR = (SR divided by the overall average for the material) × 100.
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two test results = 2.8 × Vr.
13.1.12 If a specimen is rejected, reason(s) for rejection, D
R = between-laboratory critical interval between two test results = 2.8 × VR.
13.1.13 Tangent, secant, or chord modulus in bending,
average value, standard deviation, and the strain level(s) used
if secant or chord modulus, source. Each “test result” was the average of five individual
13.1.14 Flexural strength (if desired), average value, and determinations. Each laboratory obtained two test results for
standard deviation, each material.
13.1.15 Stress at any given strain up to and including 5 % (if NOTE 19—Caution: The following explanations of r and R (14.2 –
desired), with strain used, average value, and standard 14.2.3) are intended only to present a meaningful way of considering the
deviation, approximate precision of these test methods. The data given in Tables 1
and 2 should not be applied rigorously to the acceptance or rejection of
13.1.16 Flexural stress at break (if desired), average value, materials, as those data are specific to the round robin and may not be
and standard deviation, representative of other lots, conditions, materials, or laboratories. Users of
13.1.17 Type of behavior, whether yielding or rupture, or these test methods should apply the principles outlined in Practice E691 to
both, or other observations, occurring within the 5 % strain generate data specific to their laboratory and materials, or between specific
limit, and laboratories. The principles of 14.2 – 14.2.3 would then be valid for such
data.
13.1.18 Date of specific version of test used.
14.2 Concept of “r” and “R” in Tables 1 and 2—If Sr and
14. Precision and Bias SR have been calculated from a large enough body of data, and
14.1 Tables 1 and 2 are based on a round-robin test for test results that were averages from testing five specimens
conducted in 1984, in accordance with Practice E691, involv- for each test result, then:
ing six materials tested by six laboratories using Procedure A. 14.2.1 Repeatability—Two test results obtained within one
For each material, all the specimens were prepared at one laboratory shall be judged not equivalent if they differ by more
than the r value for that material. r is the interval representing
the critical difference between two test results for the same
TABLE 1 Flexural Strength material, obtained by the same operator using the same
Values Expressed in Units of % equipment on the same day in the same laboratory.
Material Mean, 103 psi of 103 psi
14.2.2 Reproducibility—Two test results obtained by differ-
VrA VRB rC RD
ent laboratories shall be judged not equivalent if they differ by
ABS 9.99 1.59 6.05 4.44 17.2
DAP thermoset 14.3 6.58 6.58 18.6 18.6
more than the R value for that material. R is the interval
Cast acrylic 16.3 1.67 11.3 4.73 32.0 representing the critical difference between two test results for
GR polyester 19.5 1.43 2.14 4.05 6.08 the same material, obtained by different operators using differ-
GR polycarbonate 21.0 5.16 6.05 14.6 17.1
SMC 26.0 4.76 7.19 13.5 20.4
ent equipment in different laboratories.
A
14.2.3 The judgments in 14.2.1 and 14.2.2 will have an
Vr = within-laboratory coefficient of variation for the indicated material. It is
obtained by first pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test approximately 95 % (0.95) probability of being correct.
results from all of the participating laboratories: Sr = [[(s1 )2 + ( s2)2 . . . + ( sn)2]/n] 14.3 Bias—Make no statement about the bias of these test
1/2
then Vr = (S r divided by the overall average for the material) × 100.
B
Vr = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as the coefficient of variation: methods, as there is no standard reference material or reference
SR = {Sr2 + SL2} 1/2 where SL is the standard deviation of laboratory means. Then: test method that is applicable.
VR = (S R divided by the overall average for the material) × 100.
C
D
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two test results = 2.8 × Vr. 15. Keywords
R = between-laboratory critical interval between two test results = 2.8 × VR.
15.1 flexural properties; plastics; stiffness; strength

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ANNEXES

(Mandatory Information)

A1. TOE COMPENSATION

A1.1 In a typical stress-strain curve (see Fig. A1.1) there is elastic modulus can be determined by dividing the stress at any
a toe region, AC, that does not represent a property of the point along the Line CD (or its extension) by the strain at the
material. It is an artifact caused by a takeup of slack and same point (measured from Point B, defined as zero-strain).
alignment or seating of the specimen. In order to obtain correct
values of such parameters as modulus, strain, and offset yield A1.3 In the case of a material that does not exhibit any
point, this artifact must be compensated for to give the linear region (see Fig. A1.2), the same kind of toe correction of
corrected zero point on the strain or extension axis. the zero-strain point can be made by constructing a tangent to
the maximum slope at the inflection Point H'. This is extended
A1.2 In the case of a material exhibiting a region of to intersect the strain axis at Point B', the corrected zero-strain
Hookean (linear) behavior (see Fig. A1.1), a continuation of point. Using Point B' as zero strain, the stress at any point (G')
the linear (CD) region of the curve is constructed through the on the curve can be divided by the strain at that point to obtain
zero-stress axis. This intersection (B) is the corrected zero- a secant modulus (slope of Line B' G'). For those materials with
strain point from which all extensions or strains must be no linear region, any attempt to use the tangent through the
measured, including the yield offset (BE), if applicable. The inflection point as a basis for determination of an offset yield
point may result in unacceptable error.

NOTE 1—Some chart recorders plot the mirror image of this graph. NOTE 1—Some chart recorders plot the mirror image of this graph.
FIG. A1.1 Material with Hookean Region FIG. A1.2 Material with No Hookean Region
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 D790 − 15´2

A2. MEASURING AND SETTING SPAN

A2.1 For flexural fixtures that have adjustable spans, it is

important that the span between the supports is maintained
constant or the actual measured span is used in the calculation
of stress, modulus, and strain, and the loading nose or noses are
positioned and aligned properly with respect to the supports. FIG. A2.1 Markings on Fixed Specimen Supports
Some simple steps as follows can improve the repeatability of
your results when using these adjustable span fixtures.
A2.2 Measurement of Span:
A2.2.1 This technique is needed to ensure that the correct FIG. A2.2 Markings on Rotatable Specimen Supports
span, not an estimated span, is used in the calculation of
results.
A2.2.2 Scribe a permanent line or mark at the exact center
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of the support where the specimen makes complete contact. A2.3 Setting the Span and Alignment of Loading
The type of mark depends on whether the supports are fixed or Nose(s)—To ensure a consistent day-to-day setup of the span
rotatable (see Figs. A2.1 and A2.2). and ensure the alignment and proper positioning of the loading
A2.2.3 Using a vernier caliper with pointed tips that is nose, simple jigs should be manufactured for each of the
readable to at least 0.1 mm (0.004 in.), measure the distance standard setups used. An example of a jig found to be useful is
between the supports, and use this measurement of span in the shown in Fig. A2.3.
calculations.

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FIG. A2.3 Fixture Used to Set Loading Nose and Support Spacing and Alignment

APPENDIX

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. DEVELOPMENT OF A FLEXURAL MACHINE COMPLIANCE CORRECTION

X1.1 Introduction X1.3.4 Computer Software to make corrections to the dis-

X1.1.1 Universal Testing instrument drive systems always placements
exhibit a certain level of compliance that is characterized by a X1.3.5 Steel bar, with smoothed surfaces and a calculated
variance between the reported crosshead displacement and the flexural stiffness of more than 100 times greater than the test
displacement actually imparted to the specimen. This variance material. The length should be at least 13 mm greater than the
is a function of load frame stiffness, drive system wind-up, load support span. The width shall match the width of the test
cell compliance and fixture compliance. To accurately measure specimen and the thickness shall be that required to achieve or
the flexural modulus of a material, this compliance should be exceed the target stiffness.
measured and empirically subtracted from test data. Flexural
modulus results without the corrections are lower than if the X1.4 Safety Precautions
correction is applied. The greater the stiffness of the material
the more influence the system compliance has on results. X1.4.1 The universal testing machine should stop the ma-
chine crosshead movement when the load reaches 90 % of load
X1.1.2 It is not necessary to make the machine compliance cell capacity, to prevent damage to the load cell.
correction when a deflectometer/extensometer is used to mea-
sure the actual deflection occurring in the specimen as it is X1.4.2 The compliance curve determination should be
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deflected. made at a speed no higher than 2 mm/min. Because the load

builds up rapidly since the steel bar does not deflect, it is quite
X1.2 Terminology easy to exceed the load cell capacity.
X1.2.1 Compliance—The displacement difference between
test machine drive system displacement values and actual X1.5 Procedure
specimen displacement NOTE X1.1—A new compliance correction curve should be established
each time there is a change made to the setup of the test machine, such as,
X1.2.2 Compliance Correction—An analytical method of load cell changed or reinstallation of the flexure fixture on the machine. If
modifying test instrument displacement values to eliminate the the test machine is dedicated to flexural testing, and there are no changes
to the setup, it is not necessary to re-calculate the compliance curve.
amount of that measurement attributed to test instrument
NOTE X1.2—On those machines with computer software that automati-
compliance. cally make this compliance correction; refer to the software manual to
determine how this correction should be made.
X1.3 Apparatus
X1.5.1 The procedure to determine compliance follows:
X1.3.1 Universal Testing machine
X1.5.1.1 Configure the test system to match the actual test
X1.3.2 Load cell configuration.
X1.3.3 Flexure fixture including loading nose and specimen X1.5.1.2 Place the steel bar in the test fixture, duplicating
supports the position of a specimen during actual testing.

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X1.5.1.3 Set the crosshead speed to 2 mm/min. or less and
start the crosshead moving in the test direction recording
crosshead displacement and the corresponding load values.
X1.5.1.4 Increase load to a point exceeding the highest load
expected during specimen testing. Stop the crosshead and
return to the pre-test location.
X1.5.1.5 The recorded load-deflection curve, starting when
the loading nose contacts the steel bar to the time that the

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highest load expected is defined as test system compliance.
X1.5.2 Procedure to apply compliance correction is as
follows:
X1.5.2.1 Run the flexural test method on the material at the
crosshead required for the measurement.
X1.5.2.2 It is preferable that computer software be used to
make the displacement corrections, but if it is not available
compliance corrections can be made manually in the following
manner. Determine the range of displacement (D) on the load FIG. X1.2 Compliance Curve for Steel Bar
versus displacement curve for the material, over which the
modulus is to be calculated. For Young’s Modulus that would
steepest region of the curve below the proportional limit. For X1.6 Calculations
Secant and Chord Modulii that would be at specified level of X1.6.1 Calculation of Chord Modulus
strain or specified levels of strain, respectively. Draw two X1.6.1.1 Calculate the stresses (σf1, σf2) for load points L1
vertical lines up from the displacement axis for the two chosen and L2 from Fig. X1.1 using the equation in 12.2, Eq 3.
displacements (D1, D2) to the load versus displacement curve X1.6.1.2 Calculate the strains (εf1, εf2) for displacements
for the material. In some cases one of these points maybe at D1-c1 and D2-c2 from Fig. X1.3 using the equation in 12.4, Eq
zero displacement after the toe compensation correction is 5.
made. Draw two horizontal lines from these points on the load X1.6.1.3 Calculate the flexural chord modulus in accor-
displacement curve to the Load (P) axis. Determine the loads dance with 12.5.2, Eq 7.
(L1, L2). X1.6.2 Calculation of Secant Modulus
X1.5.2.3 Using the Compliance Correction load displace- X1.6.2.1 Calculation of the Secant Modulus at any strain
ment curve for the steel bar, mark off L1 and L2 on the Load along the curve would be the same as conducting a chord
(P) axis. From these two points draw horizontal lines across till modulus measurement, except that σf1 = 0, L1= 0, and D1-c1
they contact the load versus displacement curve for the steel = 0.
bar. From these two points on the load deflection curve draw
two vertical lines downwards to the displacement axis. These X1.6.3 Calculation of Young’s Modulus
two points on the displacement axis determine the corrections X1.6.3.1 Determine the steepest slope “m” along the curve,
(c1, c2) that need to be made to the displacements measure- below the proportional limit, using the selected loads L1 and
ments for the test material. L2 from Fig. X1.1 and the displacements D1-c1 and D2-c2
X1.5.2.4 Subtract the corrections (c1, c2) from the mea- from Fig. X1.3.
sured displacements (D1, D2), so that a true measures of test
specimen deflection (D1-c1, D2-c2) are obtained.

FIG. X1.3 Example of the Material Curve Corrected for the Com-
FIG. X1.1 Example of Modulus Curve for a Material pliance Corrected Displacement or Strain

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X1.6.3.2 Calculate the Young’s modulus in accordance with
12.5.1, Eq 6.

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee D20 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (D790 - 10)
that may impact the use of this standard. (December 1, 2015)

(1) Significantly modified the format of the standard from the (2) Reporting requirements have been changed.
previous edition.

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