Tension Testing of Metallic Materials: Standard Test Methods For

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles
for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: E8/E8M − 21 American Association State

Highway and Transportation Officials Standard
AASHTO No.: T68
An American National Standard
Standard Test Methods for

Tension Testing of Metallic Materials1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E8/E8M; 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.
1. Scope* mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical

1.1 These test methods cover the tension testing of metallic Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
materials in any form at room temperature, specifically, the
methods of determination of yield strength, yield point 2. Referenced Documents
elongation, tensile strength, elongation, and reduction of area. 2.1 ASTM Standards:2
1.2 The gauge lengths for most round specimens are re- A356/A356M Specification for Steel Castings, Carbon, Low
quired to be 4D for E8 and 5D for E8M. The gauge length is Alloy, and Stainless Steel, Heavy-Walled for Steam Tur-
the most significant difference between E8 and E8M test bines
specimens. Test specimens made from powder metallurgy A370 Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing
(P/M) materials are exempt from this requirement by industry- of Steel Products
wide agreement to keep the pressing of the material to a B557 Test Methods for Tension Testing Wrought and Cast
specific projected area and density. Aluminum- and Magnesium-Alloy Products
B557M Test Methods for Tension Testing Wrought and Cast
1.3 Exceptions to the provisions of these test methods may Aluminum- and Magnesium-Alloy Products (Metric)
need to be made in individual specifications or test methods for E4 Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
a particular material. For examples, see Test Methods and E6 Terminology Relating to Methods of Mechanical Testing
Definitions A370 and Test Methods B557, and B557M. E29 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to
1.4 Room temperature shall be considered to be 10 to 38°C Determine Conformance with Specifications
[50 to 100°F] unless otherwise specified. E83 Practice for Verification and Classification of Exten-
someter Systems
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
E345 Test Methods of Tension Testing of Metallic Foil
separate from inch/pound units. The values stated in each
E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to
system are not exact equivalents; therefore each system must
Determine the Precision of a Test Method
be used independently of the other. Combining values from the
E1012 Practice for Verification of Testing Frame and Speci-
two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.
men Alignment Under Tensile and Compressive Axial
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the Force Application
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the D1566 Terminology Relating to Rubber
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- E1856 Guide for Evaluating Computerized Data Acquisition
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter- Systems Used to Acquire Data from Universal Testing
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Machines
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor- E2658 Practices for Verification of Speed for Material Test-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard- ing Machines
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom- 3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions of Terms Common to Mechanical Testing—
1
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E28 on
Mechanical Testing and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E28.04 on
2
Uniaxial Testing. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Feb. 1, 2021. Published February 2021. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1924. Last previous edition approved 2016 as E8/E8M – 16aɛ1 DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/E0008_E0008M-21. the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

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E8/E8M − 21
3.1.1 The definitions of mechanical testing terms that ap- 3.1.12 yield point elongation, YPE, n—in a uniaxial test, the
pear in the Terminology E6 apply to this test method. strain (expressed in percent) separating the stress-strain curve’s
3.1.1.1 These terms include bending strain, constraint, first point of zero slope from the point of transition from
elongation, extensometer, force, gauge length, necking, re- discontinuous yielding to uniform strain hardening.
duced section, stress-strain diagram, testing machine, and 3.1.12.1 Discussion— If the transition occurs over a range
modulus of elasticity. of strain, the YPE end point is the intersection between (a) a
3.1.2 In addition, the following common terms from Termi- horizontal line drawn tangent to the curve at the last zero slope
nology E6 are defined: and (b) a line drawn tangent to the strain hardening portion of
3.1.3 discontinuous yielding, n—in a uniaxial test, a hesita- the stress-strain curve at the point of inflection. If there is no
tion or fluctuation of force observed at the onset of plastic point at or near the onset of yielding at which the slope reaches
deformation, due to localized yielding. zero, the material has 0 % YPE.
3.1.3.1 Discussion—The stress-strain curve need not appear 3.1.13 yield strength, YS or Sy [FL–2], n—the engineering
to be discontinuous. stress at which, by convention, it is considered that plastic
3.1.4 elongation after fracture, n—the elongation measured elongation of the material has commenced.
by fitting the two halves of the broken specimen together. 3.1.13.1 Discussion—This stress may be specified in terms
3.1.5 elongation at fracture, n—the elongation measured of (a) a specified deviation from a linear stress-strain
just prior to the sudden decrease in force associated with relationship, (b) a specified total extension attained, or (c)
fracture. maximum or minimum engineering stresses measured during
discontinuous yielding.
3.1.6 lower yield strength, LYS [FL-2]—in a uniaxial test,
the minimum stress recorded during discontinuous yielding, 3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
ignoring transient effects. 3.2.1 referee test, n—test made to settle a disagreement as to
3.1.7 reduced parallel section, A, n—the central portion of the conformance to specified requirements, or conducted by a
the specimen that has a nominally uniform cross section, with third party to arbitrate between conflicting results. D1566,
an optional small taper toward the center, that is smaller than D11.08
that of the ends that are gripped, not including the fillets. 4. Significance and Use
3.1.7.1 Discussion—This term is often called the parallel
length in other standards. 4.1 Tension tests provide information on the strength and
3.1.7.2 Discussion—Previous versions of E8/E8M defined ductility of materials under uniaxial tensile stresses. This
this term as “reduced section.” information may be useful in comparisons of materials, alloy
development, quality control, and design under certain circum-
3.1.8 reduction of area, n—the difference between the
stances.
original cross-sectional area of a tension test specimen and the
area of its smallest cross section. 4.2 The results of tension tests of specimens machined to
3.1.8.1 Discussion—The reduction of area is usually ex- standardized dimensions from selected portions of a part or
pressed as a percentage of the original cross-sectional area of material may not totally represent the strength and ductility
the specimen. properties of the entire end product or its in-service behavior in
3.1.8.2 Discussion—The smallest cross section may be mea- different environments.
sured at or after fracture as specified for the material under test. 4.3 These test methods are considered satisfactory for ac-
3.1.8.3 Discussion—The term reduction of area when ap- ceptance testing of commercial shipments. The test methods
plied to metals generally means measurement after fracture; have been used extensively in the trade for this purpose.
when applied to plastics and elastomers, measurement at
fracture. Such interpretation is usually applicable to values for 5. Apparatus
reduction of area reported in the literature when no further 5.1 Testing Machines—Machines used for tension testing
qualification is given. (E28.04) shall conform to the requirements of Practices E4. The forces
3.1.9 tensile strength, Su [FL–2], n—the maximum tensile used in determining tensile strength and yield strength shall be
stress that a material is capable of sustaining. within the verified force application range of the testing
3.1.9.1 Discussion—Tensile strength is calculated from the machine as defined in Practices E4. Where verification of the
maximum force during a tension test carried to rupture and the testing machine speed is required, Practices E2658 shall be
original cross-sectional area of the specimen. used unless otherwise specified.
3.1.10 uniform elongation, Elu, [%]—the elongation deter- 5.2 Gripping Devices:
mined at the maximum force sustained by the test piece just 5.2.1 General—Various types of gripping devices may be
prior to necking or fracture, or both. used to transmit the measured force applied by the testing
3.1.10.1 Discussion—Uniform elongation includes both machine to the test specimens. To ensure axial tensile stress
elastic and plastic elongation. within the gauge length, the axis of the test specimen should
3.1.11 upper yield strength, UYS [FL-2]—in a uniaxial test, coincide with the center line of the heads of the testing
the first stress maximum (stress at first zero slope) associated machine. Any departure from this requirement may introduce
with discontinuous yielding at or near the onset of plastic bending stresses that are not included in the usual stress
deformation. computation (force divided by cross-sectional area).
2
E8/E8M − 21
NOTE 1—The effect of this eccentric force application may be illus- for the determination of yield behavior shall not exceed 80 %
trated by calculating the bending moment and stress thus added. For a of the distance between grips. For measuring elongation at
standard 12.5-mm [0.500-in.] diameter specimen, the stress increase is 1.5
percentage points for each 0.025 mm [0.001 in.] of eccentricity. This error
fracture with an appropriate extensometer, the gauge length of
increases to 2.5 percentage points/ 0.025 mm [0.001 in.] for a 9 mm the extensometer shall be equal to the nominal gauge length
[0.350-in.] diameter specimen and to 3.2 percentage points/ 0.025 mm required for the specimen being tested.
[0.001 in.] for a 6-mm [0.250-in.] diameter specimen.
NOTE 2—Alignment methods are given in Practice E1012. 6. Test Specimens
5.2.2 Wedge Grips—Testing machines usually are equipped 6.1 General:
with wedge grips. These wedge grips generally furnish a 6.1.1 Specimen Size—Test specimens shall be either sub-
satisfactory means of gripping long specimens of ductile metal stantially full size or machined, as prescribed in the product
and flat plate test specimens such as those shown in Fig. 1. If, specifications for the material being tested.
however, for any reason, one grip of a pair advances farther 6.1.2 Location—Unless otherwise specified, the axis of the
than the other as the grips tighten, an undesirable bending test specimen shall be located within the parent material as
stress may be introduced. When liners are used behind the follows:
wedges, they must be of the same thickness and their faces 6.1.2.1 At the center for products 40 mm [1.500 in.] or less
must be flat and parallel. For best results, the wedges should be in thickness, diameter, or distance between flats.
supported over their entire lengths by the heads of the testing 6.1.2.2 Midway from the center to the surface for products
machine. This requires that liners of several thicknesses be over 40 mm [1.500 in.] in thickness, diameter, or distance
available to cover the range of specimen thickness. For proper between flats.
gripping, it is desirable that the entire length of the serrated 6.1.3 Specimen Machining—Improperly prepared test speci-
face of each wedge be in contact with the specimen. Proper mens often are the reason for unsatisfactory and incorrect test
alignment of wedge grips and liners is illustrated in Fig. 2. For results. It is important, therefore, that care be exercised in the
short specimens and for specimens of many materials it is preparation of specimens, particularly in the machining, to
generally necessary to use machined test specimens and to use maximize precision and minimize bias in test results.
a special means of gripping to ensure that the specimens, when 6.1.3.1 The reduced section including the fillets of prepared
under load, shall be as nearly as possible in uniformly specimens should be free of cold work, notches, chatter marks,
distributed pure axial tension (see 5.2.3, 5.2.4, and 5.2.5). grooves, gouges, burrs, rough surfaces or edges, overheating,
5.2.3 Grips for Threaded and Shouldered Specimens and or any other condition which can deleteriously affect the
Brittle Materials—A schematic diagram of a gripping device properties to be measured.
for threaded-end specimens is shown in Fig. 3, while Fig. 4
shows a device for gripping specimens with shouldered ends. NOTE 3—Punching or blanking of the reduced section may produce
significant cold work or shear burrs, or both, along the edges which should
Both of these gripping devices should be attached to the heads be removed by machining.
of the testing machine through properly lubricated spherical-
6.1.3.2 Within the reduced parallel section of rectangular
seated bearings. The distance between spherical bearings
specimens, edges or corners should not be ground or abraded in
should be as great as feasible.
a manner which could cause the actual cross-sectional area of
5.2.4 Grips for Sheet Materials—The self-adjusting grips
the specimen to be significantly different from the calculated
shown in Fig. 5 have proven satisfactory for testing sheet
area.
materials that cannot be tested satisfactorily in the usual type of
6.1.3.3 For brittle materials, large radius fillets at the ends of
wedge grips.
the gauge length should be used.
5.2.5 Grips for Wire—Grips of either the wedge or snubbing
6.1.3.4 The cross-sectional area of the specimen should be
types as shown in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 or flat wedge grips may be
smallest at the center of the reduced parallel section to ensure
used.
fracture within the gauge length. For this reason, a small taper
5.3 Dimension-Measuring Devices—Micrometers and other is permitted in the reduced parallel section of each of the
devices used for measuring linear dimensions shall be accurate specimens described in the following sections.
and precise to at least one half the smallest unit to which the 6.1.4 Specimen Surface Finish—When materials are tested
individual dimension is required to be measured. with surface conditions other than as manufactured, the surface
5.4 Extensometers—Extensometers used in tension testing finish of the test specimens should be as provided in the
shall conform to the requirements of Practice E83 for the applicable product specifications.
classifications specified by the procedure section of this test NOTE 4—Particular attention should be given to the uniformity and
method. Extensometers shall be used and verified to include quality of surface finish of specimens for high strength and very low
the strains corresponding to the yield strength and elongation at ductility materials since this has been shown to be a factor in the
fracture (if determined). variability of test results.
5.4.1 Extensometers with gauge lengths equal to or shorter 6.1.5 Specimen Grip Section Symmetry—Symmetry toler-
than the nominal gauge length of the specimen (dimension ances for grip sections of specimens (relative to centerlines of
shown as “G-Gauge Length” in the accompanying figures) may reduced parallel sections) are given within Fig. 1 and Fig. 7.
be used to determine the yield behavior. For specimens without NOTE 5—Symmetry of grip sections of machined specimens relative to
a reduced section (for example, full cross sectional area the centerlines of reduced parallel sections can affect alignment, stress-
specimens of wire, rod, or bar), the extensometer gauge length strain curves, and test results, especially when the grip sections of
3
E8/E8M − 21
Dimensions
Standard Specimens Subsize Specimen
Plate-Type, 40 mm Sheet-Type, 12.5 mm 6 mm
[1.500 in.] Wide [0.500 in.] Wide [0.250 in.] Wide
mm [in.] mm [in.] mm [in.]
G—Gauge length (Note 1 and Note 2) 200.0 ± 0.2 50.0 ± 0.1 25.0 ± 0.1
[8.00 ± 0.01] [2.000 ± 0.005] [1.000 ± 0.003]
W—Width (Note 3 and Note 4) 40.0 ± 2.0 12.5 ± 0.2 6.0 ± 0.1
[1.500 ± 0.125, -0.250] [0.500 ± 0.010] [0.250 ± 0.005]
T—Thickness (Note 5) thickness of material
R—Radius of fillet, min (Note 6) 25 [1] 12.5 [0.500] 6 [0.250]
L—Overall length, min (Note 2, Note 7, and Note 8) 450 [18] 200 [8] 100 [4]
A—Length of reduced parallel section, min 225 [9] 57 [2.25] 32 [1.25]
B—Length of grip section, min (Note 9) 75 [3] 50 [2] 30 [1.25]
C—Width of grip section, approximate (Note 4 and Note 9) 50 [2] 20 [0.750] 10 [0.375]
NOTE 1—For the 40 mm [1.500 in.] wide specimen, punch marks for measuring elongation after fracture shall be made on the flat or on the edge of
the specimen and within the reduced parallel section. Either a set of nine or more punch marks 25 mm [1 in.] apart, or one or more pairs of punch marks
200 mm [8 in.] apart may be used.
NOTE 2—When elongation measurements of 40 mm [1.500 in.] wide specimens are not required, a minimum length of reduced parallel section (A)
of 75 mm [2.25 in.] may be used with all other dimensions similar to those of the plate-type specimen.
NOTE 3—For the three sizes of specimens, the ends of the reduced parallel section shall not differ in width by more than 0.10, 0.05 or 0.02 mm [0.004,
0.002 or 0.001 in.], respectively. Also, there may be a gradual decrease in width from the ends to the center, but the width at each end shall not be more
than 1 % larger than the width at the center.
NOTE 4—For each of the three sizes of specimens, narrower widths (W and C) may be used when necessary. In such cases the width of the reduced
parallel section should be as large as the width of the material being tested permits; however, unless stated specifically, the requirements for elongation
in a product specification shall not apply when these narrower specimens are used.
NOTE 5—The dimension T is the thickness of the test specimen as provided for in the applicable material specifications. Minimum thickness of 40 mm
[1.500 in.] wide specimens shall be 5 mm [0.188 in.]. Maximum thickness of 12.5 and 6 mm [0.500 and 0.250 in.] wide specimens shall be 19 and 6
mm [0.750 and 0.250 in.], respectively.
NOTE 6—For the 40 mm [1.500 in.] wide specimen, a 13 mm [0.500 in.] minimum radius at the ends of the reduced parallel section is permitted for
steel specimens under 690 MPa [100 000 psi] in tensile strength when a profile cutter is used to machine the reduced section.
NOTE 7—The dimension shown is suggested as a minimum. In determining the minimum length, the grips must not extend in to the transition section
between Dimensions A and B, see Note 9.
NOTE 8—To aid in obtaining axial force application during testing of 6-mm [0.250-in.] wide specimens, the overall length should be as large as the
material will permit, up to 200 mm [8.00 in.].
NOTE 9—It is desirable, if possible, to make the length of the grip section large enough to allow the specimen to extend into the grips a distance equal
to two thirds or more of the length of the grips. If the thickness of 12.5 mm [0.500-in.] wide specimens is over 10 mm [0.375 in.], longer grips and
correspondingly longer grip sections of the specimen may be necessary to prevent failure in the grip section.
NOTE 10—For the three sizes of specimens, the ends of the specimen shall be symmetrical in width with the center line of the reduced parallel section
within 2.5, 1.25 and 0.13 mm [0.10, 0.05 and 0.005 in.], respectively. However, for referee testing and when required by product specifications, the ends
of the 12.5 mm [0.500 in.] wide specimen shall be symmetrical within 0.2 mm [0.01 in.].
NOTE 11—For each specimen type, the radii of all fillets shall be equal to each other within a tolerance of 1.25 mm [0.05 in.], and the centers of
curvature of the two fillets at a particular end shall be located across from each other (on a line perpendicular to the centerline) within a tolerance of 2.5
mm [0.10 in.].
NOTE 12—Specimens with sides parallel throughout their length are permitted, except for referee testing, provided: (a) the above tolerances are used;
(b) an adequate number of marks are provided for determination of elongation; and (c) when yield strength is determined, a suitable extensometer is used.
If the fracture occurs at a distance of less than 2 W from the edge of the gripping device, the tensile properties determined may not be representative of
the material. In acceptance testing, if the properties meet the minimum requirements specified, no further testing is required, but if they are less than the
minimum requirements, discard the test and retest.
FIG. 1 Rectangular Tension Test Specimens
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E8/E8M − 21
FIG. 2 Wedge Grips with Liners for Flat Specimens
FIG. 4 Gripping Device for Shouldered-End Specimens
FIG. 3 Gripping Device for Threaded-End Specimens
rectangular specimens are used to locate the specimens within the testing
machine. Tighter tolerances, such as those given by Note 10 of Fig. 1 for
referee testing, can be used to maintain alignment where asymmetry of
specimen grip sections could otherwise result in the reduced parallel
section being offset, oriented at an angle, or both, relative to the axis of
force application.
NOTE 6—Effects of specimen symmetry and misalignment errors can be
minimized by use of certain types of gripping systems or backstops.
6.2 Plate-Type Specimens—The standard plate-type test
specimen is shown in Fig. 1. This specimen is used for testing FIG. 5 Gripping Devices for Sheet and Wire Specimens
metallic materials in the form of plate, shapes, and flat material
having a nominal thickness of 5 mm [0.188 in.] or over. When
product specifications so permit, other types of specimens may
be used, as provided in 6.3, 6.4, and 6.5. 6.3 Sheet-Type Specimens:
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E8/E8M − 21
6.3, the plate-type specimen of 6.2, or the largest practical size
of round specimen described in 6.4.
6.5.4 For material with a nominal thickness of 19 mm
[0.750 in.], or greater, use the plate-type specimen of 6.2 or the
largest practical size of round specimen described in 6.4.
6.5.4.1 If the product specifications permit, material of a
thickness of 19 mm [ 0.750 in.], or greater may be tested using
a modified sheet-type specimen conforming to the configura-
tion shown by Fig. 1. The thickness of this modified specimen
must be machined to 10 6 0.5 mm [0.400 6 0.020 in.], and
must be uniform within 0.1 mm [0.004 in.] throughout the
reduced parallel section. In the event of disagreement, a round
specimen shall be used as the referee test (comparison)
FIG. 6 Snubbing Device for Testing Wire specimen.
6.6 Specimens for Wire, Rod, and Bar:
6.3.1 The standard sheet-type test specimen is shown in Fig. 6.6.1 For round wire, rod, and bar, test specimens having the
1. This specimen is used for testing metallic materials in the full cross-sectional area of the wire, rod, or bar shall be used
form of sheet, plate, flat wire, strip, band, hoop, rectangles, and wherever practicable. The gauge length for the measurement of
shapes ranging in nominal thickness from 0.13 to 19 mm elongation of wire less than 4 mm [0.125 in.] in diameter shall
[0.005 to 0.750 in.]. When product specifications so permit, be as prescribed in product specifications. When testing wire,
other types of specimens may be used, as provided in 6.2, 6.4, rod, or bar having a diameter of 4 mm [0.125 in.] or larger, a
and 6.5. gauge length equal to four times the diameter shall be used
when following E8 and a gauge length equal to five times the
NOTE 7—Test Methods E345 may be used for tension testing of diameter shall be used when following E8M unless otherwise
materials in thicknesses up to 0.15 mm [0.0059 in.].
specified. The total length of the specimens shall be at least
6.3.2 Pin ends as shown in Fig. 8 may be used. In order to equal to the gauge length plus the length of material required
avoid buckling in tests of thin and high-strength materials, it for the full use of the grips employed.
may be necessary to use stiffening plates at the grip ends. 6.6.2 For wire of octagonal, hexagonal, or square cross
6.4 Round Specimens: section, for rod or bar of round cross section where the
6.4.1 The standard 12.5-mm [0.500-in.] diameter round test specimen required in 6.6.1 is not practicable, and for rod or bar
specimen shown in Fig. 9 is used quite generally for testing of octagonal, hexagonal, or square cross section, one of the
metallic materials, both cast and wrought. following types of specimens shall be used:
6.4.2 Fig. 9 also shows small-size specimens proportional to 6.6.2.1 Full Cross Section (Note 8)—It is permissible to
the standard specimen. These may be used when it is necessary reduce the test section slightly with abrasive cloth or paper, or
to test material from which the standard specimen or specimens machine it sufficiently to ensure fracture within the gauge
shown in Fig. 1 cannot be prepared. Other sizes of small round marks. For material not exceeding 5 mm [0.188 in.] in diameter
specimens may be used. In any such small-size specimen it is or distance between flats, the cross-sectional area may be
important that the gauge length for measurement of elongation reduced to not less than 90 % of the original area without
be four times the diameter of the specimen when following E8 changing the shape of the cross section. For material over
and five times the diameter of the specimen when following 5 mm [0.188 in.] in diameter or distance between flats, the
E8M. diameter or distance between flats may be reduced by not more
6.4.3 The shape of the ends of the specimen outside of the than 0.25 mm [0.010 in.] without changing the shape of the
gauge length shall be suitable to the material and of a shape to cross section. Square, hexagonal, or octagonal wire or rod not
fit the holders or grips of the testing machine so that the forces exceeding 5 mm [0.188 in.] between flats may be turned to a
may be applied axially. Fig. 10 shows specimens with various round having a cross-sectional area not smaller than 90 % of
types of ends that have given satisfactory results. the area of the maximum inscribed circle. Fillets, preferably
6.5 Specimens for Sheet, Strip, Flat Wire, and Plate—In with a radius of 10 mm [0.375 in.], but not less than 3 mm
testing sheet, strip, flat wire, and plate, use a specimen type [0.125 in.], shall be used at the ends of the reduced parallel
appropriate for the nominal thickness of the material, as sections. Square, hexagonal, or octagonal rod over 5 mm
described in the following: [0.188 in.] between flats may be turned to a round having a
6.5.1 For material with a nominal thickness of 0.13 to 5 mm diameter no smaller than 0.25 mm [0.010 in.] less than the
[0.005 to 0.1875 in.], use the sheet-type specimen described in original distance between flats.
6.3. NOTE 8—The ends of copper or copper alloy specimens may be
6.5.2 For material with a nominal thickness of 5 to 12.5 mm flattened 10 to 50 % from the original dimension in a jig similar to that
[0.1875 to 0.500 in.], use either the sheet-type specimen of 6.3 shown in Fig. 11, to facilitate fracture within the gauge marks. In
flattening the opposite ends of the test specimen, care shall be taken to
or the plate-type specimen of 6.2. ensure that the four flattened surfaces are parallel and that the two parallel
6.5.3 For material with a nominal thickness of 12.5 to 19 surfaces on the same side of the axis of the test specimen lie in the same
mm [0.500 to 0.750 in.], use either the sheet-type specimen of plane.
6
E8/E8M − 21
Dimensions
Specimen 1 Specimen 2 Specimen 3 Specimen 4 Specimen 5 Specimen 6 Specimen 7
mm [in.] mm [in.] mm [in.] mm [in.] mm [in.] mm [in.] mm [in.]
G—Gauge length 50.0 ± 0.1 50.0 ± 0.1 200.0 ± 0.2 50.0 ± 0.1 100.0 ± 0.1 50.0 ± 0.1 100.0 ± 0.1
[2.000 ± 0.005] [2.000 ± 0.005] [8.00 ± 0.01] [2.000 ± 0.005] [4.000 ± 0.005] [2.000 ± 0.005] [4.000 ± 0.005]
W—Width (Note 1) 12.5 ± 0.2 40.0 ± 2.0 40.0 ± 0.2 20.0 ± 0.7 20.0 ± 0.7 25.0 ± 1.5 25.0 ± 1.5
[0.500 ± 0.010] [1.5 ± 0.125-0.25] [1.5 ± 0.125,-0.25] [0.750 ± 0.031] [0.750 ± 0.031] [1.000 ± 0.062] [1.000 ± 0.062]
T—Thickness measured thickness of specimen
R—Radius of fillet, min 12.5 [0.5] 25 [1] 25 [1] 25 [1] 25 [1] 25 [1] 25 [1]
A—Length of reduced par- 60 [2.25] 60 [2.25] 230 [9] 60 [2.25] 120 [4.5] 60 [2.25] 120 [4.5]
allel section,
min
B—Length of grip section, 75 [3] 75 [3] 75 [3] 75 [3] 75 [3] 75 [3] 75 [3]
min (Note 2)
C—Width of grip section, 20 [0.75] 50 [2] 50 [2] 25 [1] 25 [1] 40 [1.5] 40 [1.5]
approximate (Note 3)
NOTE 1—The ends of the reduced parallel section shall differ from each other in width by not more than 0.5 %. There may be a gradual taper in width
from the ends to the center, but the width at each end shall be not more than 1 % greater than the width at the center.
NOTE 2—It is desirable, if possible, to make the length of the grip section great enough to allow the specimen to extend into the grips a distance equal
to two thirds or more of the length of the grips.
NOTE 3—The ends of the specimen shall be symmetrical with the center line of the reduced parallel section within 1 mm [0.05 in.] for specimens 1,
4, and 5, and 2.5 mm [0.10 in.] for specimens 2, 3, 6, and 7.
NOTE 4—For each specimen type, the radii of all fillets shall be equal to each other within a tolerance of 1.25 mm [ 0.05 in.], and the centers of curvature
of the two fillets at a particular end shall be located across from each other (on a line perpendicular to the centerline) within a tolerance of 2.5 mm [0.10
in.].
NOTE 5—For circular segments, the cross-sectional area may be calculated by multiplying W and T. If the ratio of the dimension W to the diameter
of the tubular section is larger than about 1⁄6 the error in using this method to calculate the cross-sectional area may be appreciable. In this case, the exact
equation (see 7.2.3) must be used to determine the area.
NOTE 6—Specimens with G/W less than 4 should not be used for determination of elongation.
NOTE 7—Specimens with sides parallel throughout their length are permitted, except for referee testing, provided: (a) the above tolerances are used;
(b) an adequate number of marks are provided for determination of elongation; and (c) when yield strength is determined, a suitable extensometer is used.
If the fracture occurs at a distance of less than 2 W from the edge of the gripping device, the tensile properties determined may not be representative of
the material. If the properties meet the minimum requirements specified, no further testing is required, but if they are less than the minimum requirements,
discard the test and retest.
FIG. 7 Tension Test Specimens for Large-Diameter Tubular Products
6.6.2.2 For rod and bar, the largest practical size of round 6.7.2 Rectangular bar of thickness small enough to fit the
specimen as described in 6.4 may be used in place of a test grips of the testing machine but of too great width may be
specimen of full cross section. Unless otherwise specified in reduced in width by cutting to fit the grips, after which the cut
the product specification, specimens shall be parallel to the surfaces shall be machined or cut and smoothed to ensure
direction of rolling or extrusion. failure within the desired section. The reduced width shall not
6.7 Specimens for Rectangular Bar—In testing rectangular be less than the original bar thickness. Also, one of the types of
bar one of the following types of specimens shall be used: specimens described in 6.2, 6.3, and 6.4 may be used.
6.7.1 Full Cross Section—It is permissible to reduce the 6.8 Shapes, Structural and Other—In testing shapes other
width of the specimen throughout the test section with abrasive
than those covered by the preceding sections, one of the types
cloth or paper, or by machining sufficiently to facilitate fracture
of specimens described in 6.2, 6.3, and 6.4 shall be used.
within the gauge marks, but in no case shall the reduced width
be less than 90 % of the original. The edges of the midlength 6.9 Specimens for Pipe and Tube (Note 9):
of the reduced parallel section not less than 20 mm [3⁄4 in.] in 6.9.1 For all small tube (Note 9), particularly sizes 25 mm
length shall be parallel to each other and to the longitudinal [1 in.] and under in nominal outside diameter, and frequently
axis of the specimen within 0.05 mm [0.002 in.]. Fillets, for larger sizes, except as limited by the testing equipment, it is
preferably with a radius of 10 mm [3⁄8 in.] but not less than 3 standard practice to use tension test specimens of full-size
mm [1⁄8 in.] shall be used at the ends of the reduced parallel tubular sections. Snug-fitting metal plugs shall be inserted far
sections. enough into the ends of such tubular specimens to permit the
7
E8/E8M − 21
Dimensions, mm [in.]
G—Gauge length 50.0 ± 0.1 [2.000 ± 0.005]
W—Width (Note 1) 12.5 ± 0.2 [0.500 ± 0.010]
T—Thickness, max (Note 2) 16 [0.625]
R—Radius of fillet, min (Note 3) 13 [0.5]
L—Overall length, min 200 [8]
A—Length of reduced parallel section, min 57 [2.25]
B—Length of grip section, min 50 [2]
C—Width of grip section, approximate 50 [2]
D—Diameter of hole for pin, min (Note 4) 13 [0.5]
E—Edge distance from pin, approximate 40 [1.5]
F—Distance from hole to fillet, min 13 [0.5]
NOTE 1—The ends of the reduced parallel section shall differ in width by not more than 0.1 mm [0.002 in.]. There may be a gradual taper in width
from the ends to the center, but the width at each end shall be not more than 1 % greater than the width at the center.
NOTE 2—The dimension T is the thickness of the test specimen as stated in the applicable product specifications.
NOTE 3—For some materials, a fillet radius R larger than 13 mm [0.500 in.] may be needed.
NOTE 4—Holes must be on center line of reduced parallel section within 6 0.05mm [0.002 in].
NOTE 5—Variations of dimensions C, D, E, F, and L may be used that will permit failure within the gauge length.
FIG. 8 Pin-Loaded Tension Test Specimen with 50-mm [2-in.] Gauge Length
testing machine jaws to grip the specimens properly. The plugs 6.9.3 Transverse tension test specimens for tube may be
shall not extend into that part of the specimen on which the taken from rings cut from the ends of the tube as shown in Fig.
elongation is measured. Elongation is measured over a length 14. Flattening of the specimen may be either after separating as
of four times the diameter when following E8 or five times the in A, or before separating as in B. Transverse tension test
diameter when following E8M unless otherwise stated in the specimens for large tube under 20 mm [0.750 in.] in wall
product specification. Fig. 12 shows a suitable form of plug, thickness shall be either of the small-size specimens shown in
the location of the plugs in the specimen, and the location of Fig. 9 or of the form and dimensions shown for Specimen 2 in
the specimen in the grips of the testing machine. Fig. 7. When using the latter specimen, either or both surfaces
NOTE 9—The term “tube” is used to indicate tubular products in of the specimen may be machined to secure a uniform
general, and includes pipe, tube, and tubing. thickness, provided not more than 15 % of the normal wall
6.9.2 For large-diameter tube that cannot be tested in full thickness is removed from each surface. For large tube 20 mm
section, longitudinal tension test specimens shall be cut as [0.750 in.] and over in wall thickness, the standard specimen
indicated in Fig. 13. Specimens from welded tube shall be shown in Fig. 9 shall be used for transverse tension tests.
located approximately 90° from the weld. If the tube-wall Specimens for transverse tension tests on large welded tube to
thickness is under 20 mm [0.750 in.], either a specimen of the determine the strength of welds shall be located perpendicular
form and dimensions shown in Fig. 7 or one of the small-size to the welded seams, with the welds at about the middle of their
specimens proportional to the standard 12.5-mm [0.500-in.] lengths.
specimen, as mentioned in 6.4.2 and shown in Fig. 9, shall be 6.10 Specimens for Forgings—For testing forgings, the
used. Specimens of the type shown in Fig. 7 may be tested with largest round specimen described in 6.4 shall be used. If round
grips having a surface contour corresponding to the curvature specimens are not feasible, then the largest specimen described
of the tube. When grips with curved faces are not available, the
in 6.5 shall be used.
ends of the specimens may be flattened without heating. If the
tube-wall thickness is 20 mm [0.750 in.] or over, the standard 6.10.1 For forgings, specimens shall be taken as provided in
specimen shown in Fig. 9 shall be used. the applicable product specifications, either from the predomi-
nant or thickest part of the forging from which a coupon can be
NOTE 10—In clamping of specimens from pipe and tube (as may be obtained, or from a prolongation of the forging, or from
done during machining) or in flattening specimen ends (for gripping), care
must be taken so as not to subject the reduced section including the fillets
separately forged coupons representative of the forging. When
to any deformation or cold work, as this would alter the mechanical not otherwise specified, the axis of the specimen shall be
properties. parallel to the direction of grain flow.
8
E8/E8M − 21
For Test Specimens with Gauge Length Four times the Diameter [E8]
Standard Small-Size Specimens Proportional to Standard
Specimen
Specimen 1 Specimen 2 Specimen 3 Specimen 4 Specimen 5
G—Gauge length 50.0 ± 0.1 36.0 ± 0.1 24.0 ± 0.1 16.0 ± 0.1 10.0 ±0.1
[2.000 ± 0.005] [1.400 ± 0.005] [1.000 ± 0.005] [0.640 ± 0.005] [0.450 ± 0.005]
D—Diameter (Note 1) 12.5 ± 0.2 9.0 ±0.1 6.0 ± 0.1 4.0 ± 0.1 2.5 ± 0.1
[0.500 ± 0.010] [0.350 ± 0.007] [0.250 ± 0.005] [0.160 ± 0.003] [0.113 ± 0.002]
R—Radius of fillet, min 10 [0.375] 8 [0.25] 6 [0.188] 4 [0.156] 2 [0.094]
A—Length of reduced parallel section, min 56 [2.25] 45 [1.75] 30 [1.25] 20 [0.75] 16 [0.625]
(Note 2)
For Test Specimens with Gauge Length Five times the Diameter [E8M]
Standard Specimen Small-Size Specimens Proportional to Standard
G—Gauge length 62.5 ± 0.1 45.0 ± 0.1 30.0 ± 0.1 20.0 ± 0.1 12.5 ± 0.1
[2.500 ± 0.005] [1.750 ± 0.005] [1.250 ± 0.005] [0.800 ± 0.005] [0.565 ± 0.005]
D—Diameter (Note 1) 12.5 ± 0.2 9.0 ± 0.1 6.0 ± 0.1 4.0 ± 0.1 2.5 ± 0.1
[0.500 ± 0.010] [0.350 ± 0.007] [0.250 ± 0.005] [0.160 ± 0.003] [0.113 ± 0.002]
A—Length of reduced parallel section, min 75 [3.0] 54 [2.0] 36 [1.4] 24 [1.0] 20 [0.75]
(Note 2)
NOTE 1—The reduced parallel section may have a gradual taper from the ends toward the center, with the ends not more than 1 % larger in diameter
than the center (controlling dimension).
NOTE 2—If desired, the length of the reduced parallel section may be increased to accommodate an extensometer of any convenient gauge length.
Reference marks for the measurement of elongation should, nevertheless, be spaced at the indicated gauge length.
NOTE 3—The gauge length and fillets may be as shown, but the ends may be of any form to fit the holders of the testing machine in such a way that
the force shall be axial (see Fig. 10). If the ends are to be held in wedge grips it is desirable, if possible, to make the length of the grip section great enough
to allow the specimen to extend into the grips a distance equal to two thirds or more of the length of the grips.
NOTE 4—On the round specimens in Figs. 9 and 10, the gauge lengths are equal to four [E8] or five times [E8M] the nominal diameter. In some product
specifications other specimens may be provided for, but unless the 4-to-1 [E8] or 5-to-1 [E8M] ratio is maintained within dimensional tolerances, the
elongation values may not be comparable with those obtained from the standard test specimen.
NOTE 5—The use of specimens smaller than 6-mm [0.250-in.] diameter shall be restricted to cases when the material to be tested is of insufficient size
to obtain larger specimens or when all parties agree to their use for acceptance testing. Smaller specimens require suitable equipment and greater skill
in both machining and testing.
NOTE 6—For inch/pound units only: Five sizes of specimens often used have diameters of approximately 0.505, 0.357, 0.252, 0.160, and 0.113 in.,
the reason being to permit easy calculations of stress from loads, since the corresponding cross-sectional areas are equal or close to 0.200, 0.100, 0.0500,
0.0200, and 0.0100 in.2, respectively. Thus, when the actual diameters agree with these values, the stresses (or strengths) may be computed using the
simple multiplying factors 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100, respectively. (The metric equivalents of these five diameters do not result in correspondingly convenient
cross-sectional areas and multiplying factors.)
FIG. 9 Standard 12.5-mm [0.500-in.] Round Tension Test Specimen and Examples of Small-Size Specimens
Proportional to the Standard Specimen
9
E8/E8M − 21
For Test Specimens with Gauge Length Four times the Diameter [E8]
G—Gauge length 50 ± 0.1 50 ± 0.1 50 ± 0.1 50 ± 0.1 50 ± 0.1
[2.000 ± 0.005] [2.000 ± 0.005] [2.000 ± 0.005] [2.000 ± 0.005] [2.000 ± 0.005]
D—Diameter (Note 1) 12.5 ± 0.2 12.5 ± 0.2 12.5 ± 0.2 12.5 ± 0.2 12.5 ± 0.2
[0.500 ± 0.010] [0.500 ± 0.010] [0.500 ± 0.010] [0.500 ± 0.010] [0.500 ± 0.010]
A—Length of reduced parallel section 56 [2.25] 56 [2.25] 100 [4] 56 [2.25] 56 [2.25]
min min approximate min min
L—Overall length, approximate 145 [5] 155 [5.5] 155 [5.5] 140 [4.75] 255 [9.5]
B—Length of end section (Note 3) 35 [1.375] 25 [1] 20 [0.75] 15 [0.5] 75 [3]
approximate approximate approximate approximate min
C—Diameter of end section 20 [0.75] 20 [0.75] 20 [0.75] 22 [0.875] 20 [0.75]
E—Length of shoulder and fillet section, approximate 15 [0.625] 20 [0.75] 15 [0.625]
F—Diameter of shoulder 15 [0.625] 15 [0.625] 15 [0.625]
For Test Specimens with Gauge Length Five times the Diameter [E8M]
G—Gauge length 62.5 ± 0.1 62.5 ± 0.1 62.5 ± 0.1 62.5 ± 0.1 62.5 ± 0.1
[2.500 ± 0.005] [2.500 ± 0.005] [2.500 ± 0.005] [2.500 ± 0.005] [2.500 ± 0.005]
D—Diameter (Note 1) 12.5 ± 0.2 12.5 ± 0.2 12.5 ± 0.2 12.5 ± 0.2 12.5 ± 0.2
[0.500 ± 0.010] [0.500 ± 0.010] [0.500 ± 0.010] [0.500 ± 0.010] [0.500 ± 0.010]
A—Length of reduced parallel section 75 [3] 75 [3] 75 [3] 75 [3] 75 [3]
min min approximate min min
L—Overall length, approximate 145 [5] 155 [5.5] 155 [5.5] 140 [4.75] 255 [9.5]
B—Length of end section (Note 3) 35 [1.375] 25 [1] 20 [0.75] 15 [0.5] 75 [3]
approximate approximate approximate approximate min
C—Diameter of end section 20 [0.75] 20 [0.75] 20 [0.75] 22 [0.875] 20 [0.75]
E—Length of shoulder and fillet section, approximate 15 [0.625] 20 [0.75] 15 [0.625]
F—Diameter of shoulder 15 [0.625] 15 [0.625] 15 [0.625]
NOTE 1—The reduced parallel section may have a gradual taper from the ends toward the center with the ends not more than 1 %. larger in diameter
than the center.
NOTE 2—On Specimens 1 and 2, any standard thread is permissible that provides for proper alignment and aids in assuring that the specimen will break
within the reduced parallel section.
NOTE 3—On Specimen 5 it is desirable, if possible, to make the length of the grip section great enough to allow the specimen to extend into the grips
a distance equal to two thirds or more of the length of the grips.
NOTE 4—The values stated in SI units in the table for Fig. 10 are to be regarded as separate from the inch/pound units. The values stated in each system
are not exact equivalents; therefore each system must be used independently of the other.
FIG. 10 Various Types of Ends for Standard Round Tension Test Specimens
10
E8/E8M − 21
6.12 Specimen for Malleable Iron—For testing malleable
iron the test specimen shown in Fig. 17 shall be used, unless
otherwise provided in the product specifications.
6.13 Specimen for Die Castings—For testing die castings
the test specimen shown in Fig. 18 shall be used unless
otherwise provided in the product specifications.
6.14 Specimens for Powder Metallurgy (P/M) Materials—
For testing powder metallurgy (P/M) materials the test speci-
mens shown in Figs. 19 and 20 shall be used, unless otherwise
provided in the product specifications. When making test
specimens in accordance with Fig. 19, shallow transverse
grooves, or ridges, may be pressed in the ends to allow
gripping by jaws machined to fit the grooves or ridges. Because
FIG. 11 Squeezing Jig for Flattening Ends of Full-Size Tension of shape and other factors, the flat unmachined tensile test
Test Specimens specimen (Fig. 19) in the heat treated condition will have an
ultimate tensile strength of 50 % to 85 % of that determined in
a machined round tensile test specimen (Fig. 20) of like
composition and processing.
7. Procedures
7.1 Preparation of the Test Machine—Upon startup, or
following a prolonged period of machine inactivity, the test
machine should be exercised or warmed up to normal operating
temperatures to minimize errors that may result from transient
conditions.
7.2 Measurement of Dimensions of Test Specimens:
7.2.1 To determine the cross-sectional area of a test
specimen, measure the dimensions of the cross section at the
center of the reduced parallel section. For referee testing of
specimens less than 5 mm [0.188 in.] in their least dimension,
NOTE 1—The diameter of the plug shall have a slight taper from the line measure the dimensions where the least cross-sectional area is
limiting the test machine jaws to the curved section. found. Measure and record the cross-sectional dimensions of
FIG. 12 Metal Plugs for Testing Tubular Specimens, Proper Loca-
tion of Plugs in Specimen and of Specimen in Heads of Testing
tension test specimens as follows:
Machine (1) Specimen dimension ≥ 5 mm [0.200 in.] to the nearest
0.02 mm [0.001 in.].
(2) 2.5 mm [0.100 in.] ≤ Specimen dimension < 5 mm
[0.200 in.] to the nearest 0.01 mm [0.0005 in.].
(3) 0.5 mm [0.020 in.] ≤ specimen dimension < 2.5 mm
[0.100 in.] to the nearest 0.002 mm [0.0001 in.].
(4) Specimen dimensions < 0.5 mm [0.020 in.], to at least
the nearest 1 % when practical but in all cases to at least the
nearest 0.002 mm [0.0001 in.].
NOTE 11—Accurate and precise measurement of specimen dimensions
can be one of the most critical aspects of tension testing, depending on
specimen geometry. See Appendix X2 for additional information.
NOTE 12—Rough surfaces due to the manufacturing process such as hot
NOTE 1—The edges of the blank for the specimen shall be cut parallel rolling, metallic coating, etc., may lead to inaccuracy of the computed
to each other. areas greater than the measured dimensions would indicate. Therefore,
FIG. 13 Location from Which Longitudinal Tension Test Speci- cross-sectional dimensions of test specimens with rough surfaces due to
mens Are to be Cut from Large-Diameter Tube processing may be measured and recorded to the nearest 0.02 mm [0.001
in.]
NOTE 13—See X2.9 for cautionary information on measurements taken
6.11 Specimens for Castings—In testing castings either the from coated metal products.
standard specimen shown in Fig. 9 or the specimen shown in 7.2.2 Determine the cross-sectional area of a full-size test
Fig. 15 shall be used unless otherwise provided in the product specimen of uniform but nonsymmetrical cross section by
specifications. determining the mass of a length not less than 20 times longer
6.11.1 Test coupons for castings shall be made as shown in than the largest cross-sectional dimension.
Fig. 16 and Table 1. 7.2.2.1 Determine the weight to the nearest 0.5 % or less.
11
E8/E8M − 21
FIG. 14 Location of Transverse Tension Test Specimen in Ring

Cut from Tubular Products
where:
A = exact cross-sectional area, mm2 [in.2],
W = width of the specimen in the reduced parallel section,
mm [in.],
D = measured outside diameter of the tube, mm [in.], and
T = measured wall thickness of the specimen, mm [in.].
arcsin values to be in radians
If D/W > 6, the exact equation or the following equation may
Dimensions be used:
Specimen 1 Specimen 2 Specimen 3 A 5 W 3T (2)
mm [in.] mm [in.] mm [in.]
D—Diameter 12.5 ± 0.2 20 ± 0.4 30.0 ± 0.6
where:
[0.500 ± 0.010] [0.750 ± 0.015] [1.25 ± 0.02] A = approximate cross-sectional area, mm2 [in.2],
R—Radius of fillet, 25 [1] 25 [1] 50 [2] W = width of the specimen in the reduced parallel section,
min
A—Length of reduced Shall be equal to or greater than diameter D mm [in.], and
parallel section, T = measured wall thickness of the specimen, mm [in.].
min NOTE 14—See X2.8 for cautionary information on measurements and
L—Overall length, min 95 [3.75] 100 [4] 160 [6.375] calculations for specimens taken from large-diameter tubing.
B—Length of end 25 [1] 25 [1] 45 [1.75]
section, 7.3 Gauge Length Marking of Test Specimens:
approximate 7.3.1 The gauge length for the determination of elongation
C—Diameter of end 20 [0.75] 30 [1.125] 48 [1.875]
section, shall be in accordance with the product specifications for the
approximate material being tested. Gauge marks shall be stamped lightly
E—Length of shoulder, 6 [0.25] 6 [0.25] 8 [0.312] with a punch, scribed lightly with dividers or drawn with ink as
min
F—Diameter of shoul- 16.0 ± 0.4 24.0 ± 0.4 36.5 ± 0.4 preferred. For material that is sensitive to the effect of slight
der [0.625 ± 0.016] [0.94 ± 0.016] [1.438 ± 0.016] notches and for small specimens, the use of layout ink will aid
H—length of reduced 32 [1.25] 38 [1.5] 60 [2.25
section plus fillets, min
in locating the original gauge marks after fracture.
7.3.2 For materials where the specified elongation is 3 % or
NOTE 1—The reduced parallel section (dimensions A and D) and less, measure the original gauge length to the nearest 0.05 mm
shoulders (dimensions E, F, and R) shall be as shown, but the ends may [0.002 in.] prior to testing.
be of any form to fit the holders of the testing machine in such a way that
the force can be axial. Commonly the ends are threaded and have the 7.4 Zeroing of the Testing Machine:
dimensions B and C given above. 7.4.1 The testing machine shall be set up in such a manner
FIG. 15 Standard Tension Test Specimen for Cast Iron that zero force indication signifies a state of zero force on the
specimen. Any force (or preload) imparted by the gripping of
7.2.2.2 The cross-sectional area is equal to the mass of the the specimen (see Note 15) must be indicated by the force
specimen divided by the length and divided by the density of measuring system unless the preload is physically removed
the material. prior to testing. Artificial methods of removing the preload on
7.2.3 When using specimens of the type shown in Fig. 7 the specimen, such as taring it out by a zero adjust pot or
taken from tubes, the cross-sectional area shall be determined removing it mathematically by software, are prohibited be-
as follows: cause these would affect the accuracy of the test results.
If D/W ≤ 6: NOTE 15—Preloads generated by gripping of specimens may be either
A5 FS DW
4
3 =~ D 2 2 W 2 ! 1 G FS D D2
4
3 arcsin
W
D S DG FS D
2
W
4
tensile or compressive in nature and may be the result of such things as:
— grip design
— malfunction of gripping apparatus (sticking, binding, etc.)
3 =~ D 2 2T ! 2 2 W 2 2 G FS D D 2 2T
2
2
3 arcsinS DG W
D 2 2T
(1)
— excessive gripping force
— sensitivity of the control loop
12
E8/E8M − 21
TABLE 1 Details of Test Coupon Design for Castings (see Fig. 16)
NOTE 1—Test Coupons for Large and Heavy Steel Castings: The test coupons in Fig. 16A and B are to be used for large and heavy steel castings.
However, at the option of the foundry the cross-sectional area and length of the standard coupon may be increased as desired. This provision does not
apply to Specification A356/A356M.
NOTE 2—Bend Bar: If a bend bar is required, an alternate design (as shown by dotted lines in Fig. 16) is indicated.
Leg Design, 125 mm [5 in.] Riser Design
1. L (length) A 125mm [5-in.] minimum length will be used. 1. L (length) The length of the riser at the base will be the
This length may be increased at the option of the same as the top length of the leg. The length of
foundry to accommodate additional test bars (see the riser at the top therefore depends on the
Note 1). amount of taper added to the riser.
The width of the riser at the base of a multiple-leg
coupon shall be n (57 mm) – 16 mm [n (2.25 in.)
Use of and size of end taper is at the option of – 0.625 in.] where n equals the number of legs
2. End taper 2. Width
the foundry. attached to the coupon. The width of the riser at
the top is therefore dependent on the amount of
taper added to the riser.
3. Height 32 mm [1.25 in.]
4. Width (at top) 32 mm [1.25 in.] (see Note 1)
5. Radius (at bottom) 13 mm [0.5 in.] max
6. Spacing between legs A 13 mm [0.5 in.] radius will be used between the
legs.
7. Location of test bars The tensile, bend, and impact bars will be taken
from the lower portion of the leg (see Note 2).
Use of and size is at the option of the foundry.
The minimum height of the riser shall be 51 mm
[2 in.]. The maximum height is at the option of the
The number of legs attached to the coupon is at
3. T (riser taper) foundry for the following reasons: (a) many risers
8. Number of legs the option of the foundry providing they are
Height are cast open, (b) different compositions may re-
equispaced according to Item 6.
quire variation in risering for soundness, or (c)
different pouring temperatures may require varia-
tion in risering for soundness.
9. Rx Radius from 0 to approximately 2 mm [0.062 in.]
NOTE 16—It is the operator’s responsibility to verify that an observed results are unsatisfactory for determining the acceptability of
preload is acceptable and to ensure that grips operate in a smooth manner. the material. In such instances, depending upon the material
Unless otherwise specified, it is recommended that momentary (dynamic)
forces due to gripping not exceed 20 % of the material’s nominal yield
and the use for which the test results are intended, one or more
strength and that static preloads not exceed 10 % of the material’s nominal of the methods described in the following paragraphs is
yield strength. recommended for specifying speed of testing.
7.5 Gripping of the Test Specimen: NOTE 18—Speed of testing can affect test values because of the rate
7.5.1 For specimens with reduced sections, gripping of the sensitivity of materials and the temperature-time effects.
specimen shall be restricted to the grip section, because
7.6.3.1 Rate of Straining—The allowable limits for rate of
gripping in the reduced section or in the fillet can significantly
straining shall be specified in mm/mm/min [in./in./min]. Some
affect test results.
testing machines are equipped with pacing or indicating
7.6 Speed of Testing: devices for the measurement and control of rate of straining,
7.6.1 Speed of testing may be defined in terms of (a) rate of but in the absence of such a device the average rate of straining
straining of the specimen, (b) rate of stressing of the specimen, can be determined with a timing device by observing the time
(c) crosshead speed, (d) the elapsed time for completing part or required to effect a known increment of strain.
all of the test, or (e) free-running crosshead speed (rate of 7.6.3.2 Rate of Stressing—The allowable limits for rate of
movement of the crosshead of the testing machine when not stressing shall be specified in megapascals per second [pounds
under load). per square inch per minute]. Many testing machines are
7.6.2 Other applicable specifications may require verifica- equipped with pacing or indicating devices for the measure-
tion of the speed of the testing machine. In such cases, unless ment and control of the rate of stressing, but in the absence of
otherwise specified, the verification shall be done in accor- such a device the average rate of stressing can be determined
dance with Practices E2658, with the machine meeting the with a timing device by observing the time required to apply a
Class E or better requirements known increment of stress.
NOTE 17—Some materials/applications are fairly sensitive to test speed, 7.6.3.3 Crosshead Speed—The allowable limits for cross-
whereas others are not. In general-purpose tensile testing, significant head speed, during a test, may be specified in mm/min
variation in the test speed can often be tolerated. [in./min]; in this case, the limits for the crosshead speed should
7.6.3 Specifying suitable numerical limits for speed and be further qualified by specifying different limits for various
selection of the method are the responsibilities of the product types and sizes of specimens. In cases where different length
committees. Suitable limits for speed of testing should be specimens may be used, it is often more practical to specify the
specified for materials for which the differences resulting from crosshead speed in terms of mm [in.] per mm [in.] of length of
the use of different speeds are of such magnitude that the test the original reduced parallel section of the specimen (or
13
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FIG. 16 Test Coupons for Castings
14
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D—Diameter 16 [0.625]
R—Radius of fillet 8 [0.312]
A—Length of reduced parallel section 64 [2.5]
L—Overall length 190 [7.5]
B—Length of end section 64 [2.5]
C—Diameter of end section 20 [0.75]
E—Length of fillet 5 [0.188]
FIG. 17 Standard Tension Test Specimen for Malleable Iron
G—Gauge length 50 ± 0.1 [2.000 ± 0.005]
D—Diameter (see Note) 6.4 ± 0.1 [0.250 ± 0.005]
R—Radius of fillet, min 75 [3]
A—Length of reduced parallel section, min 60 [2.25]
L—Overall length, min 230 [9]
B—Distance between grips, min 115 [4.5]
C—Diameter of end section, approximate 10 [0.375]
NOTE 1—The reduced parallel section may have a gradual taper from the end toward the center, with the ends not more than 0.1 mm [0.005 in.] larger
in diameter than the center.
FIG. 18 Standard Tension Test Specimens for Die Castings
distance between grips for specimens not having reduced machine, with no force applied by the testing machine, shall be
sections) per minute. Many testing machines are equipped with specified in mm per mm [inches per inch] of length of reduced
pacing or indicating devices for the measurement and control parallel section (or distance between grips for specimens not
of the crosshead speed during a test, but in the absence of such having reduced sections) per second [minute]. The limits for
devices the average crosshead speed can be experimentally the crosshead speed may be further qualified by specifying
determined by using suitable length-measuring and timing different limits for various types and sizes of specimens. The
devices. average crosshead speed can be experimentally determined by
NOTE 19—This method of specifying speed of testing, “Crosshead
using suitable length-measuring and timing devices.
Speed”, was previously called “Rate of Separation of Heads During
NOTE 21—For machines not having crossheads or having stationary
Tests.”
crossheads, the phrase “free-running crosshead speed” may be interpreted
NOTE 20—For machines not having crossheads or having stationary
to mean the free-running rate of grip separation.
crossheads, the phrase “crosshead speed” may be interpreted to mean the
rate of grip separation. 7.6.4 Speed of Testing When Determining Yield Properties—
7.6.3.4 Elapsed Time—The allowable limits for the elapsed Unless otherwise specified, any convenient speed of testing
time from the beginning of force application (or from some may be used up to one half the specified minimum yield
specified stress) to the instant of fracture, to the maximum strength or up to one quarter of the specified minimum tensile
force, or to some other stated stress, shall be specified in strength, whichever is smaller. The speed above this point shall
minutes or seconds. The elapsed time can be determined with be within the specified limits. If different speed limitations are
a timing device. required for use in determining yield strength, yield point
7.6.3.5 Free-Running Crosshead Speed—The allowable elongation, tensile strength, elongation, and reduction of area,
limits for the rate of movement of the crosshead of the testing they should be stated in the product specifications. In all cases,
15
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Pressing Area = 645 mm2 [1.00 in.2]
G—Gauge length 25.4 ± 0.08 [1.000 ± 0.003] Approximate Pressing Area of Unmachined Compact = 752 mm2
D—Width at center 5.72 ± 0.03 [0.225 ± 0.001] [1.166 in.2] Machining Recommendations
W—Width at end of reduced 5.97 ± 0.03 [0.235 ± 0.001] 1. Rough machine reduced parallel section to 6.35-mm [0.25-in.] diam-
parallel section eter
T—Compact to this thickness 3.56 to 6.35 [0.140 to 0.250] 2. Finish turn 4.75/4.85-mm [0.187/0.191-in.] diameter with radii and
R—Radius of fillet 25.4 [1] taper
A—Length of reduced parallel 31.8 [1.25] 3. Polish with 00 emery cloth
section 4. Lap with crocus cloth
B—Grip length 80.95 ± 0.03 [3.187 ± 0.001]
L—Overall length 89.64 ± 0.03 [3.529 ± 0.001] Dimensions, mm [in.]
C—Width of grip section 8.71 ± 0.03 [0.343 ± 0.001]
G—Gauge length 25.4 ± 0.08 [1.000 ± 0.003]
F—Half-width of grip section 4.34 ± 0.03 [0.171 ± 0.001]
D—Diameter at center of reduced par- 4.75 ± 0.03 [0.187± 0.001]
E—End radius 4.34 ± 0.03 [0.171 ± 0.001]
allel section
H—Diameter at ends of gauge length 4.85 ± 0.03 [0.191 ± 0.001]
NOTE 1—Dimensions Specified, except G and T, are those of the die. R—Radius of gauge fillet 6.35 ± 0.13 [0.250 ± 0.005]
FIG. 19 Standard Flat Unmachined Tension Test Specimens for A—Length of reduced parallel section 47.63 ± 0.13 [1.875 ± 0.003]
Powder Metallurgy (P/M) Products L—Overall length (die cavity length) 75 [3], nominal
B—Length of end section 7.88 ± 0.13 [0.310 ± 0.005]
C—Compact to this end thickness 10.03 ± 0.13 [0.395 ± 0.005]
W—Die cavity width 10.03 ± 0.08 [0.395 ± 0.003]
the speed of testing shall be such that the forces and strains E—Length of shoulder 6.35 ± 0.13 [0.250 ± 0.005]
used in obtaining the test results are accurately indicated. F—Diameter of shoulder 7.88 ± 0.03 [0.310 ± 0.001]
Determination of mechanical properties for comparison of J—End fillet radius 1.27 ± 0.13 [0.050 ± 0.005]
product properties against a specification value should be run NOTE 1—The gauge length and fillets of the specimen shall be as
using the same control method and rate used to determine the shown. The ends as shown are designed to provide a practical minimum
specification value unless it can be shown that another method pressing area. Other end designs are acceptable, and in some cases are
yields equivalent or conservative results. In the absence of any required for high-strength sintered materials.
specified limitations, one of the following control methods NOTE 2—It is recommended that the test specimen be gripped with a
shall be used. Appendix X4 provides additional guidance on split collet and supported under the shoulders. The radius of the collet
support circular edge is to be not less than the end fillet radius of the test
selecting the control method. specimen.
NOTE 22—In the previous and following paragraphs, the yield proper- NOTE 3—Diameters D and H are to be concentric within 0.03 mm
ties referred to include yield strength, yield point, and yield point [0.001 in.] total indicator runout (T.I.R.), and free of scratches and tool
elongation. marks.
FIG. 20 Standard Round Machined Tension Test Specimen for
7.6.4.1 Control Method A—Rate of Stressing Method for Powder Metallurgy (P/M) Products
Determining Yield Properties - In this method, the testing
machine shall be operated such that the rate of stress applica-
tion in the linear elastic region is between 1.15 and 11.5 MPa/s divided by the nominal Young’s Modulus of the material being tested. As
[10 000 and 100 000 psi/min]. The speed of the testing machine another example, find a crosshead speed through experimentation that
approximates the desired stressing rate prior to the onset of yielding, and
shall not be increased in order to maintain a stressing rate when maintain that crosshead speed through the region that yield properties are
the specimen begins to yield. It is not recommended that the determined. While both of these methods will provide similar rates of
testing machine be operated in closed-loop control using the stressing and straining prior to the onset of yielding, the rates of stressing
force signal through yield; however closed-loop control of the and straining are generally quite different in the region where yield
force signal can be used in the linear-elastic portion of the test. properties are determined.
NOTE 24—This method has been the default method for many years for
NOTE 23—It is not the intent of this method to maintain constant stress testing materials that exhibit low strain rate sensitivity such as some steels
rate or to control stress rate with closed loop force control while and aluminum.
determining yield properties, but only to set the crosshead speed to 7.6.4.2 Control Method B - Rate of Straining Control
achieve the target stress rate in the elastic region. When a specimen being
tested begins to yield, the stressing rate decreases and may even become Method for Determining Yield Properties—In this method, the
negative in the case of a specimen with discontinuous yielding. To testing machine shall be operated in closed-loop control using
maintain a constant stressing rate through the yielding process requires the the extensometer signal. The rate of straining shall be set and
testing machine to operate at extremely high speeds and, in most cases, maintained at 0.015 6 0.006 mm/mm/min [in./in./min].
this is neither practical nor desirable. In practice, it is simpler to use either
a strain rate, crosshead speed, or a free-running crosshead speed that NOTE 25—Proper precautions must be observed when operating a
approximates the desired stressing rate in the linear-elastic portion of the machine in closed-loop strain control because unexpected crosshead
test. As an example, use a strain rate that is between 1.15 and 11.5 MPa/s movement may occur if the control parameters are not set properly, if
16
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proper safety limits are not set, or if the extensometer slips.
NOTE 26—A Rate of Straining at 0.005 mm/mm/min [in./in./min] is A n q
often required for aerospace, high-temperature alloys, and titanium YS(offset=X %) s
YS(EUL=Y %)
applications and when specified, must be followed rather than the r
requirement above.
7.6.4.3 Control Method C—-Crosshead Speed Control
Stress
Method for Determining Yield Properties–The testing machine
shall be set to a crosshead speed equal to 0.015 6 0.003
mm/mm/min [in./in./min] of the original reduced parallel
section (dimension A in Fig. 1, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 7,
Fig. 15, Fig. 17, Fig. 18, and Fig. 20, and 2 times dimension A
in Fig. 19) or distance between grips for specimens without
X= specified offset
reduced sections.
O m p
NOTE 27—It is recommended that crosshead speed be used for control
in regions of discontinuous yielding. Strain
NOTE 28—Using different Control Methods may produce different yield FIG. 21 Stress-Strain Diagram for Determination of Yield
results especially if the material being tested is strain-rate sensitive. To Strength by the Offset and Total Elongation
achieve the best reproducibility in cases where the material may be
strain-rate sensitive, the same control method should be used. Methods
described in 7.6.4.2 or 7.6.4.3 will tend to give similar results in the case
of a strain-rate sensitive material. The control method described in 7.6.4.1 parallel to OA, and thus locate r, the intersection of mn with the
should be avoided for strain rate sensitive materials if it is desirable to stress-strain curve. In reporting values of yield strength ob-
reproduce similar test results on other testing machines or in other
laboratories. tained by this method, the specified value of offset used should
be stated in parentheses after the term yield strength. Thus:
7.6.5 Speed of Testing When Determining Tensile
Strength—In the absence of any specified limitations on speed Yield strength ~ offset 5 0.2 % ! 5 360 MPa @ 52 000 psi# (3)
of testing, the following general rules shall apply for materials In using this method, a Class B2 or better extensometer (see
with expected elongations greater than 5 %. When determining Practice E83) shall be used.
only the tensile strength, or after the yield behavior has been
recorded, the speed of the testing machine shall be set between NOTE 34—There are two general types of extensometers, averaging and
non-averaging, the use of which depends on the product tested. For most
0.05 and 0.5 mm/mm [or in./in.] of the length of the reduced machined specimens, the differences are small. However, for some
parallel section (or distance between the grips for specimens forgings and tube sections, significant differences in measured yield
not having a reduced section) per minute. Alternatively, an strength can occur. For these cases, the averaging type should be used.
extensometer and strain rate indicator may be used to set the NOTE 35—When there is a disagreement over yield properties, the offset
method for determining yield strength is recommended as the referee test
strain rate between 0.05 and 0.5 mm/mm/min [or in./in./min]. method.
NOTE 29—For materials with expected elongations less than or equal to NOTE 36—In practice, for a number of reasons, the straight-line portion
5 %, the speed of the testing machine may be maintained throughout the of the stress-strain curve (line OA shown in Fig. 21) may not go through
test at the speed used to determine yield properties. the origin of the stress-strain diagram. Appendix X5 shows examples of
NOTE 30—Tensile strength and elongation are sensitive to test speed for non-ideal behavior and suggests methods for computing the yield strength
many materials (see Appendix X1) to the extent that variations within the from these non-ideal stress-strain diagrams.
range of test speeds given above can significantly affect results. 7.7.2 Extension-Under-Load (EUL) Method—Yield strength
7.7 Determination of Yield Strength—Determine yield by the extension-under-load method may be determined in two
strength by any of the methods described in 7.7.1 to 7.7.4. ways: (1) analyzing the stress-strain diagram to determine the
Where extensometers are employed, use only those that are stress value at the specified value of extension, or (2) using
verified over a strain range in which the yield strength will be devices that indicate when the specified extension occurs, so
determined (see 5.4). that the stress then occurring may be determined, see also
7.7.2.1. Fig. 21 also illustrates the extension-under load
NOTE 31—For example, a verified strain range of 0.2 % to 2.0 % is
appropriate for use in determining the yield strengths of many metals. method. Report the stress at the specified extension as follows:
NOTE 32—Determination of yield behavior on materials that cannot Yield strength ~ EUL 5 0.5% ! 5 370 MPa @ 53 500 psi# (4)
support an appropriate extensometer (thin wire, for example) is problem-
atic and outside the scope of this standard. Extensometers and other devices used in determination of
NOTE 33—Yield properties of materials exhibiting yield point elonga- the extension shall meet or exceed Class B2 requirements (see
tion (YPE) are often less repeatable and less reproducible than those of Practice E83) at the strain of interest, except where use of
similar materials having no YPE. Offset and extension-under-load (EUL)
yield strengths may be significantly affected by stress fluctuations occur- low-magnification Class C devices is helpful, such as in
ring in the region where the offset or extension intersects the stress-strain facilitating measurement of YPE, if observed. If Class C
curve. Determination of upper or lower yield strengths (or both) may devices are used, report their use with the results.
therefore be preferable for such materials, although these properties
depend on variables such as test machine stiffness and alignment and NOTE 37—The appropriate value of the total extension should be
speed of testing. specified. For steels with nominal yield strengths of less than 550 MPa
[80 000 psi], an appropriate value is 0.005 mm/mm [or in./in.] (0.5 %) of
7.7.1 Offset Method—On the stress-strain diagram (Fig. 21) the gauge length. For higher strength steels, a greater extension or the
lay off Om equal to the specified value of the offset, draw mn offset method should be used.
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7.7.2.1 When no other means of measuring elongation are
available, a pair of dividers or similar device may be used to t
YPE
determine a point of detectable elongation between two gauge
UYS
marks on the specimen. The gauge length shall be 50 mm [2
in.]. The stress corresponding to the load at the instant of
detectable elongation may be recorded as the approximate h h
LYS
extension-under-load yield strength.
Stress
t
7.7.3 Method for materials that exhibit discontinuous
yielding—Construct a stress-strain (or force-elongation) dia-
gram. Determine the upper or lower yield strength as follows:
7.7.3.1 Record the stress corresponding to the maximum
t-t : tangent to strain hardening at point of inflection
force at the onset of discontinuous yielding as the upper yield h-h : horizontal tangent at the last zero slope
strength as illustrated in Figs. 22 and 23. If multiple peaks are
observed at the onset of discontinuous yielding, the first is
considered the upper yield strength. (See Fig. 23.)
7.7.3.2 Record the minimum stress observed during discon-
tinuous yielding (ignoring transient effects) as the lower yield
strength. This is illustrated in Fig. 23. Strain
7.7.3.3 Where large-strain data are needed to facilitate FIG. 23 Stress-Strain Diagram Showing Yield Point Elongation
measurement of yield point elongation for materials that may (YPE) and Upper (UYS) and Lower (LYS) Yield Strengths
exhibit discontinuous yielding, Class C extensometers may be
employed. When this is done but the material exhibits no
discontinuous yielding, the extension-under-load yield strength zero slope) and the onset of uniform strain hardening (see
may be determined instead, using the stress-strain curve (see definition of YPE in Terminology E6 and Fig. 23).
Extension-Under-Load Method). NOTE 39—The stress-strain curve of a material exhibiting only a hint of
7.7.4 Halt-of-the-Force Method for materials that exhibit the behavior causing YPE may have an inflection at the onset of yielding
discontinuous yielding—Apply an increasing force to the with no point where the slope reaches zero (Fig. 24). Such a material has
specimen at a uniform deformation rate. When the force no YPE, but may be characterized as exhibiting an inflection. Materials
hesitates, record the corresponding stress as the upper yield exhibiting inflections, like those with measurable YPE, may in certain
applications acquire an unacceptable surface appearance during forming.
strength.
7.9 Uniform Elongation (if required):
NOTE 38—The Halt-of-the-Force Method was formerly known as the 7.9.1 Uniform elongation shall include both plastic and
Halt-of-the-Pointer Method, the Drop-of-the-Beam Method, and the
Halt-of-the-Load Method. elastic elongation.
7.9.2 Uniform elongation shall be determined using auto-
7.8 Yield Point Elongation—Calculate the yield point elon-
graphic methods with extensometers conforming to Practice
gation from the stress-strain diagram or data by determining
E83. Use a class B2 or better extensometer for materials having
the difference in strain between the upper yield strength (first
a uniform elongation less than 5 %. Use a class C or better
extensometer for materials having a uniform elongation greater
UYS
Inflection
Stress
Stress
Strain
FIG. 22 Stress-Strain Diagram Showing Upper Yield Strength Strain
Corresponding with Top of Knee FIG. 24 Stress-Strain Diagram With an Inflection, But No YPE
18
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than or equal to 5 % but less than 50 %. Use a class D or better
extensometer for materials having a uniform elongation of
50 % or greater. Maximum
force
7.9.3 Determine the uniform elongation as the elongation at
the point of maximum force from the force elongation data plateau region
collected during a test.
7.9.3.1 Some materials exhibit a yield point followed by
Force
considerable elongation where the yield point is the maximum Detail of plateau region
(force scale magnified)
force achieved during the test. In this case, uniform elongation Maximum
is not determined at the yield point, but instead at the highest force, Fmax
0.5% Fmax
force occurring just prior to necking (see Fig. 25).
Force
7.9.3.2 Stress-strain curves for some materials exhibit a
lengthy, plateau-like region in the vicinity of the maximum
force. For such materials, determine the uniform elongation at Elu
the center of the plateau as indicated in Fig. 26 (see also Note Elu 0
Elongation
40 below).
0
NOTE 40—When uniform elongation is being determined digitally,
noise in the stress-strain data generally causes many small, local peaks and Elongation
valleys to be recorded in the plateau region. To accommodate this, the FIG. 26 Force-Elongation Diagram for Determination of Uniform
following procedure is recommended: Elongation of Steel Sheet Materials Exhibiting a Plateau at Maxi-
— Determine the maximum force recorded (after discontinuous yield- mum Force
ing).
— Evaluate the sequence of force values recorded before and after the
maximum force.
— Digitally define the “plateau” as consisting of all consecutive data mum force carried by the specimen during the tension test by
points wherein the force value is within 0.5 % of the magnitude of the the original cross-sectional area of the specimen.
peak force value.
— Determine the uniform elongation as the strain at the mid-point of NOTE 41—If the upper yield strength is the maximum stress recorded,
the “plateau.” and if the stress-strain curve resembles that of Fig. 25, it is recommended
7.9.3.3 Discussion—The 0.5 % value of Note 40 has been that the maximum stress after discontinuous yielding be reported as the
tensile strength. Where this may occur, determination of the tensile
selected arbitrarily. In actual practice, the value should be strength should be in accordance with the agreement between the parties
selected so as to be the minimum figure that is large enough to involved.
effectively define the force plateau. This may require that the
7.11 Elongation:
percentage be about five times the amplitude of the force
7.11.1 Elongation may be calculated from elongation-after-
fluctuations occurring due to noise. Values ranging from 0.1 %
fracture measurements or directly from elongation-at-fracture
to 1.0 % may be found to work acceptably.
measurements. Either value may be reported, but the method
7.10 Tensile Strength (also known as Ultimate Tensile used shall be reported. When disagreements arise over the
Strength)—Calculate the tensile strength by dividing the maxi- elongation results, the parties shall agree on which method to
use to obtain the results.
NOTE 42—Elongation results are very sensitive to variables such as (a)
Fmax speed of testing, (b) specimen geometry (gauge length, diameter, width,
and thickness), (c) heat dissipation (through grips, extensometers, or other
devices in contact with the reduced parallel section), (d) surface finish in
reduced parallel section (especially burrs or notches), (e) alignment, and
(f) fillets and tapers. Elongation at fracture and elongation after fracture
are not interchangeable parameters. Results from the elongation-at-
fracture method are generally more repeatable. Parties involved in
comparison or conformance testing should standardize the above items.
Force
The use of ancillary devices, such as extensometer supports, that may

remove heat from the specimen should be avoided. See Appendix X1 for
additional information on the effects of these variables.
7.11.2 Measurement of elongation after fracture:
7.11.2.1 Follow the gauge length marking procedures and
requirements of 7.3 and the gauge length tolerance require-
ments shown in Fig. 1, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 7, Fig. 15, Fig. 17,
Elu Fig. 18, Fig. 19, or Fig. 20 as appropriate. Pay particular
attention to requirements for low-elongation materials.
0 7.11.2.2 Measure the elongation after fracture by fitting the
Elongation two halves of the test specimen together and measuring the
FIG. 25 Stress-Strain Diagram in Which the Upper Yield Strength distance between gauge marks that were applied before the
is the Maximum Stress Recorded Method test.
19
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7.11.2.3 When the specified elongation is greater than 3 %, requirement, no further testing need be done. Otherwise,
fit ends of the fractured specimen together carefully and discard the test and test a replacement specimen.
measure the distance between the gauge marks to the nearest 7.11.5 Reporting:
0.25 mm [0.01 in.] for gauge lengths of 50 mm [2 in.] and 7.11.5.1 Report both the original gauge length, G, and the
under, and to at least the nearest 0.5 % of the gauge length for percentage increase.
gauge lengths over 50 mm [2 in.]. A percentage scale reading Example: Elongation = 30% increase ~ 50-mm @2-in.# gauge length!
to 0.5 % of the gauge length may be used.
(5)
7.11.2.4 When the specified elongation is 3 % or less,
remove partly torn fragments that will interfere with fitting 7.11.5.2 If any device other than an extensometer is placed
together the ends of the fractured specimen or with making the in contact with the specimen’s reduced section during the test,
final measurement. Fit the fractured ends together with report this also.
matched surfaces and apply a force along the axis of the 7.12 Reduction of Area:
specimen sufficient to close the fractured ends together. This 7.12.1 The reduced area used to calculate reduction of area
force may then be removed carefully, provided the specimen (see 7.11.2 and 7.11.3) shall be the minimum cross section at
remains intact. Measure the final gauge length to the nearest the location of fracture.
0.05 mm [0.002 in.], and report the elongation to the nearest
7.12.2 Specimens with Originally Circular Cross Sections—
0.2 %. The procedure given in 7.11.2.3 may be used instead
Fit the ends of the fractured specimen together and measure the
when the measured elongation is greater than 3 %.
reduced diameter to the same accuracy as the original mea-
NOTE 43—The use of a force generating a stress of approximately 15 surement.
MPa [2000 psi] has been found to give satisfactory results on test
specimens of aluminum alloy. NOTE 46—Because of anisotropy, circular cross sections often do not
NOTE 44—Due to the lack of precision in fitting fractured ends together, remain circular during straining in tension. The shape is usually elliptical,
the elongation after fracture using the manual methods of the paragraphs thus, the area may be calculated by π · d1·d2/4, where d1 and d2 are the
7.11.2 may differ from the elongation at fracture determined with major and minor diameters, respectively.
extensometers and described in 7.11.3. 7.12.3 Specimens with Original Rectangular Cross
7.11.3 Measurement of elongation at fracture: Sections—Fit the ends of the fractured specimen together and
7.11.3.1 Elongation at fracture shall include elastic and measure the thickness and width at the minimum cross section
plastic elongation. to the same accuracy as the original measurements.
NOTE 45—Unless the specimen has not necked at the point of fracture, NOTE 47—Because of the constraint to deformation that occurs at the
correction for elastic strains requires knowledge of the variable strain corners of rectangular specimens, the dimensions at the center of the
distribution along the specimen length between the extensometer attach- original flat surfaces are less than those at the corners. The shapes of these
ment points, which is beyond the scope of this standard. surfaces are often assumed to be parabolic. When this assumption is made,
an effective thickness, te, may be calculated as follows: (t1 + 4t2 + t3)/6,
7.11.3.2 Elongation at fracture may be determined with
where t1 and t3 are the thicknesses at the corners, and t2 is the thickness
autographic or automated methods using extensometers veri- at mid-width. An effective width may be similarly calculated.
fied over the strain range of interest (see 5.4.1). Use a class B2
7.12.4 Calculate the reduced area based upon the dimen-
or better extensometer for materials having less than 5 %
sions determined in 7.12.2 or 7.12.3. The difference between
elongation, a class C or better extensometer for materials
the area thus found and the area of the original cross section
having elongation greater than or equal to 5 % but less than 50
expressed as a percentage of the original area is the reduction
%, and a class D or better extensometer for materials having 50
of area.
% or greater elongation. In all cases, the extensometer gauge
length shall be the nominal gauge length, G, required for the 7.12.5 If any part of the fracture takes place outside the
specimen being tested. middle half of the reduced parallel section or in a punched or
7.11.3.3 For materials that fail suddenly, the elongation at scribed gauge mark within the reduced parallel section, the
fracture shall be taken as the strain just prior to the sudden reduction of area value obtained may not be representative of
decrease in force. the material. In acceptance testing, if the reduction of area so
7.11.3.4 For materials that do not exhibit a sudden decrease calculated meets the minimum requirements specified, no
in force, the elongation at fracture shall be taken as the strain further testing is required, but if the reduction of area is less
measured just prior to when the force falls below 10 % of the than the minimum requirements, discard the test results and
maximum force encountered during the test. retest.
7.11.4 Replacement of specimens: 7.12.6 Results of measurements of reduction of area shall be
7.11.4.1 Elongation at or after fracture may be affected by rounded using the procedures of Practice E29 and any specific
location of the fracture, relative to the marked or extensometer- procedures in the product specifications. In the absence of a
defined gauge length. If any part of the fracture occurs outside specified procedure, it is recommended that reduction of area
this gauge length (7.14.5) or is located less than 25 % of the test values in the range from 0 to 10 % be rounded to the
elongated gauge length (7.14.6) from either gauge mark or nearest 0.5 % and test values of 10 % and greater to the nearest
extensometer-contact point, the elongation value may be ab- 1 %.
normally low and unrepresentative of the material. If such an 7.13 Rounding Reported Test Data for Yield Strength and
elongation measure is obtained in acceptance testing involving Tensile Strength—Test data should be rounded using the
only a minimum requirement and the value meets the procedures of Practice E29 and the specific procedures in the
20
E8/E8M − 21
product specifications. In the absence of a specified procedure 8.2.8 Uniform Elongation, if required (see 7.9).
for rounding the test data, one of the procedures described in 8.2.9 Reduction of area, if required (see 7.12).
the following paragraphs is recommended. 8.3 Test information to be available on request shall include:
7.13.1 For test values up to 500 MPa [50 000 psi], round to 8.3.1 Specimen test section dimension(s).
the nearest 1 MPa [100 psi]; for test values of 500 MPa 8.3.2 Equation used to calculate cross-sectional area of
[50 000 psi] and up to 1000 MPa [100 000 psi], round to the rectangular specimens taken from large-diameter tubular prod-
nearest 5 MPa [500 psi]; for test values of 1000 MPa [100 000 ucts.
psi] and greater, round to the nearest 10 MPa [1000 psi]. 8.3.3 Speed and method used to determine speed of testing
NOTE 48—For steel products, see Test Methods and Definitions A370. (see 7.6).
7.13.2 For all test values, round to the nearest 1 MPa 8.3.4 Method used for rounding of test results (see 7.13).
[100 psi]. 8.3.5 Reasons for replacement specimens (see 7.14).
NOTE 49—For aluminum- and magnesium-alloy products, see Methods 9. Precision and Bias
B557.
9.1 Precision—An interlaboratory test program3 gave the
7.13.3 For all test values, round to the nearest 5 MPa following values for coefficients of variation for the most
[500 psi]. commonly measured tensile properties:
7.14 Replacement of Specimens—A test specimen may be Coefficient of Variation, %
discarded and a replacement specimen selected from the same
Elongation
lot of material in the following cases: Yield Yield Gauge
7.14.1 The original specimen had a poorly machined Strength Strength Length Reduction
surface, Tensile Offset Offset =4 of
Strength = 0.02 % = 0.2 % Diameter Area
7.14.2 The original specimen had the wrong dimensions, CV %r 0.9 2.7 1.4 2.8 2.8
7.14.3 The specimen’s properties were changed because of CV %R 1.3 4.5 2.3 5.4 4.6
poor machining practice, CV %r = repeatability coefficient of variation in percent within a laboratory
CV %R = reproducibility† coefficient of variation in percent between
7.14.4 The test procedure was incorrect, laboratories
7.14.5 The fracture was outside the gauge length, †
Editorially corrected in February 2020.
7.14.6 For elongation determinations, the fracture was out- 9.1.1 The values shown are the averages from tests on six
side the middle half of the gauge length, or frequently tested metals, selected to include most of the normal
7.14.7 There was a malfunction of the testing equipment. range for each property listed above. When these materials are
NOTE 50—The tension specimen is inappropriate for assessing some compared, a large difference in coefficient of variation is found.
types of imperfections in a material. Other methods and specimens Therefore, the values above should not be used to judge
employing ultrasonics, dye penetrants, radiography, etc., may be consid- whether the difference between duplicate tests of a specific
ered when flaws such as cracks, flakes, porosity, etc., are revealed during material is larger than expected. The values are provided to
a test and soundness is a condition of acceptance.
allow potential users of this test method to assess, in general
8. Report terms, its usefulness for a proposed application.
8.1 Test information on materials not covered by a product 9.2 Bias—The procedures in Test Methods E8/E8M for
specification should be reported in accordance with 8.2 or both measuring tensile properties have no bias because these prop-
8.2 and 8.3. erties can be defined only in terms of a test method.
8.2 Test information to be reported shall include the follow- 10. Keywords
ing when applicable:
8.2.1 Reference to the standard used, i.e. E8 or E8M. 10.1 accuracy; bending stress; discontinuous yielding; drop-
8.2.2 Material and sample identification. of-the-beam; eccentric force application; elastic extension;
8.2.3 Specimen type (see Section 6). elongation; extension-under-load; extensometer; force; free-
8.2.4 Yield strength and the method used to determine yield running crosshead speed; gauge length; halt-of-the force;
strength (see 7.7). percent elongation; plastic extension; preload; rate of stressing;
8.2.5 Yield point elongation (see 7.8). rate of straining; reduced parallel section; reduction of area;
8.2.6 Tensile Strength (also known as Ultimate Tensile sensitivity; strain; stress; taring; tensile strength; tension test-
Strength) (see 7.10). ing; yield point elongation; yield strength
8.2.7 Elongation (report original gauge length, percentage
increase, and method used to determine elongation; i.e. at 3
Supporting data can be found in Appendix X1 and additional data are available
fracture or after fracture) (see 7.11). from ASTM Headquarters. Request RR:E28-1004.
21
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APPENDIXES
(Nonmandatory Information)
X1. FACTORS AFFECTING TENSION TEST RESULTS
X1.1 The precision and bias of tension test strength and X1.4.4.2 Holding the Lo/(Ao)1/2 ratio constant minimizes,
ductility measurements depend on strict adherence to the stated but does not necessarily eliminate, differences. Depending on
test procedure and are influenced by instrumental and material material and test conditions, increasing the size of the propor-
factors, specimen preparation, and measurement/testing errors. tional specimen of Fig. 9 may be found to increase or decrease
elongation and reduction in area values somewhat.
X1.2 The consistency of agreement for repeated tests of the
same material is dependent on the homogeneity of the material, X1.4.5 Use of a taper in the gauge length, up to the allowed
and the repeatability of specimen preparation, test conditions, 1 % limit, can result in lower elongation values. Reductions of
and measurements of the tension test parameters. as much as 15 % have been reported for a 1 % taper.
X1.4.6 Changes in the strain rate can affect the yield
X1.3 Instrumental factors that can affect test results include:
strength, tensile strength, and elongation values, especially for
the stiffness, damping capacity, natural frequency, and mass of
materials which are highly strain rate sensitive. In general, the
moving parts of the tensile test machine; accuracy of force
yield strength and tensile strength will increase with increasing
indication and use of forces within the verified range of the
strain rate, although the effect on tensile strength is generally
machine; rate of force application, alignment of the test
less pronounced. Elongation values generally decrease as the
specimen with the applied force, parallelness of the grips, grip
strain rate increases.
pressure, nature of the force control used, appropriateness and
calibration of extensometers, heat dissipation (by grips, X1.4.7 Brittle materials require careful specimen
extensometers, or ancillary devices), and so forth. preparation, high quality surface finishes, large fillets at the
ends of the gauge length, oversize threaded grip sections, and
X1.4 Material factors that can affect test results include cannot tolerate punch or scribe marks as gauge length indica-
representativeness and homogeneity of the test material, sam- tors.
pling scheme, and specimen preparation (surface finish, dimen-
sional accuracy, unintentional fillets (undercuts) at the ends of X1.4.8 Flattening of tubular products to permit testing does
the reduced parallel section, taper in the gauge length, bent alter the material properties, generally nonuniformly, in the
specimens, thread quality, and so forth). flattened region which may affect test results.
X1.4.1 Some materials are very sensitive to the quality of X1.5 Measurement errors that can affect test results include:
the surface finish of the test specimen (see Note 4) and must be verification of the test force, extensometers, micrometers,
ground to a fine finish, or polished to obtain correct results. dividers, and other measurement devices, alignment and zero-
X1.4.2 Test results for specimens with as-cast, as-rolled, ing of chart recording devices, and so forth.
as-forged, or other non-machined surface conditions can be X1.5.1 Measurement of the dimensions of as-cast, as-rolled,
affected by the nature of the surface (see Note 12). as-forged, and other test specimens with non-machined sur-
X1.4.3 Test specimens taken from appendages to the part or faces may be imprecise due to the irregularity of the surface
component, such as prolongs or risers, or from separately flatness.
produced castings (for example, keel blocks) may produce test X1.5.2 Materials with anisotropic flow characteristics may
results that are not representative of the part or component. exhibit non-circular cross sections after fracture and measure-
X1.4.4 Test specimen dimensions can influence test results. ment precision may be affected, as a result (see Note 46).
For cylindrical or rectangular specimens, changing the test X1.5.3 The corners of rectangular test specimens are subject
specimen size generally has a negligible effect on the yield and to constraint during deformation and the originally flat surfaces
tensile strength but may influence the upper yield strength, if may be parabolic in shape after testing which will affect the
one is present, and elongation and reduction of area values. precision of final cross-sectional area measurements (see Note
Comparison of elongation values determined using different 47).
specimens requires that the following ratio be controlled:
X1.5.4 If any portion of the fracture occurs outside of the
L o / ~ A o ! 1/2 (X1.1)
middle of the gauge length, or in a punch or scribe mark within
where: the gauge length, the elongation and reduction of area values
Lo = original gauge length of specimen, and may not be representative of the material. Wire specimens that
Ao = original cross-sectional area of specimen. break at or within the grips may not produce test results
representative of the material.
X1.4.4.1 Specimens with smaller Lo/(Ao)1/2 ratios generally
give greater elongation and reduction in area values. This is the X1.5.5 Use of specimens with shouldered ends (“button-
case for example, when the width or thickness of a rectangular head” tensiles) will produce lower 0.02 % offset yield strength
tensile test specimen is increased. values than threaded specimens.
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X1.6 Because standard reference materials with certified son of the repeatability (within-laboratory precision) and
tensile property values are not available, it is not possible to reproducibility (between-laboratory precision) of the tension
rigorously define the bias of tension tests. However, by the use test parameters. This shows that the ductility measurements
of carefully designed and controlled interlaboratory studies, a exhibit less repeatability and reproducibility than the strength
reasonable definition of the precision of tension test results can measurements. The overall ranking from the least to the most
be obtained. repeatable and reproducible is: % elongation in 4D, % elonga-
X1.6.1 An interlaboratory test program3 was conducted in tion in 5D, % reduction in area, 0.02 % offset yield strength,
which six specimens each, of six different materials were 0.2 % offset yield strength, and tensile strength. Note that the
prepared and tested by each of six different laboratories. Tables rankings are in the same order for the repeatability and
X1.1-X1.6 present the precision statistics, as defined in Prac- reproducibility average coefficients of variation and that the
tice E691, for: tensile strength, 0.02 % yield strength, 0.2 % reproducibility (between-laboratory precision) is poorer than
yield strength, % elongation in 4D, % elongation in 5D, and the repeatability (within-laboratory precision) as would be
% reduction in area. In each table, the first column lists the six expected.
materials tested, the second column lists the average of the
average results obtained by the laboratories, the third and fifth X1.6.3 No comments about bias can be made for the
columns list the repeatability and reproducibility standard interlaboratory study due to the lack of certified test results for
deviations, the fourth and sixth columns list the coefficients of these specimens. However, examination of the test results
variation for these standard deviations, and the seventh and showed that one laboratory consistently exhibited higher than
eighth columns list the 95 % repeatability and reproducibility average strength values and lower than average ductility values
limits. for most of the specimens. One other laboratory had consis-
X1.6.2 The averages (below columns four and six in each tently lower than average tensile strength results for all
table) of the coefficients of variation permit a relative compari- specimens.
TABLE X1.1 Precision Statistics—Tensile Strength, MPa [ksi]
NOTE 1—X is the average of the cell averages, that is, the grand mean for the test parameter,
sr is the repeatability standard deviation (within-laboratory precision) in MPa [ksi],
sr/ X is the coefficient of variation in %,
sR is the reproducibility standard deviation (between-laboratory precision) in MPa [ksi],
sR/ X is the coefficient of variation, %,
r is the 95 % repeatability limits in MPa [ksi],
R is the 95 % reproducibility limits in MPa [ksi].
Material X sr sr ⁄X, % sR sR ⁄X, % r R
EC-H19 176.9 [25.66] 4.3 [0.63] 2.45 4.3 [0.63] 2.45 12.1 [1.76] 12.1 [1.76]
2024-T351 491.3 [71.26] 6.1 [0.88] 1.24 6.6 [0.96] 1.34 17.0 [2.47] 18.5 [2.68]
ASTM A105 596.9 [86.57] 4.1 [0.60] 0.69 8.7 [1.27] 1.47 11.6 [1.68] 24.5 [3.55]
AISI 316 694.6 [100.75] 2.7 [0.39] 0.39 8.4 [1.22] 1.21 7.5 [1.09] 23.4 [3.39]
Inconel 600 685.9 [99.48] 2.9 [0.42] 0.43 5.0 [0.72] 0.72 8.2 [1.19] 13.9 [2.02]
SAE 51410 1253.0 [181.73] 0.25 [0.46] 0.25 7.9 [1.14] 0.63 8.9 [1.29] 22.1 [ 3.20]
Averages: 0.91 1.30
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TABLE X1.2 Precision Statistics—0.02 % Yield Strength, MPa [ksi]
EC-H19 111.4 [16.16] 4.5 [0.65] 4.00 8.2 [1.19] 7.37 12.5 [1.81] 23.0 [3.33]
2024-T351 354.2 [51.38] 5.8 [0.84] 1.64 6.1 [0.89] 1.73 16.3 [2.36] 17.2 [2.49]
ASTM A105 411.1 [59.66] 8.3 [1.20] 2.02 13.1 [1.90] 3.18 23.2 [3.37] 36.6 [5.31]
AISI 316 336.1 [48.75] 16.7 [2.42] 4.97 31.9 [4.63] 9.49 46.1 [6.68] 89.0 [12.91]
Inconel 600 267.1 [38.74] 3.2 [0.46] 1.18 5.2 [0.76] 1.96 8.8 [1.28] 14.7 [2.13]
SAE 51410 723.2 [104.90] 16.6 [2.40] 2.29 21.9 [3.17] 3.02 46.4 [6.73] 61.2 [8.88]
Averages: 2.68 4.46
TABLE X1.3 Precision Statistics—0.2 % Yield Strength, MPa [ksi]

EC-H19 158.4 [22.98] 3.3 [0.47] 2.06 3.3 [0.48] 2.07 9.2 [1.33] 9.2 [1.33]
2024-T351 362.9 [52.64] 5.1 [0.74] 1.41 5.4 [0.79] 1.49 14.3 [2.08] 15.2 [2.20]
ASTM A105 402.4 [58.36] 5.7 [0.83] 1.42 9.9 [1.44] 2.47 15.9 [2.31] 27.8 [4.03]
AISI 316 481.1 [69.78] 6.6 [0.95] 1.36 19.5 [2.83] 4.06 18.1 [2.63] 54.7 [7.93]
Inconel 600 268.3 [38.91] 2.5 [0.36] 0.93 5.8 [0.85] 2.17 7.0 [1.01] 16.3 [2.37]
SAE 51410 967.5 [140.33] 8.9 [1.29] 0.92 15.9 [2.30] 1.64 24.8 [3.60] 44.5 [6.45]
Averages: 1.35 2.32
TABLE X1.4 Precision Statistics—% Elongation in 4D for E8 Specimens

NOTE 1—Length of reduced parallel section = 6D.
Material X sr sr/X, % sR sR/X, % r R
EC-H19 17.42 0.64 3.69 0.92 5.30 1.80 2.59
2024-T351 19.76 0.58 2.94 1.58 7.99 1.65 4.43
ASTM A105 29.10 0.76 2.62 0.98 3.38 2.13 2.76
AISI 316 40.07 1.10 2.75 2.14 5.35 3.09 6.00
Inconel 600 44.28 0.66 1.50 1.54 3.48 1.86 4.31
SAE 51410 14.48 0.48 3.29 0.99 6.83 1.34 2.77
Averages: 2.80 5.39
TABLE X1.5 Precision Statistics—% Elongation in 5D for E8M Specimens

NOTE 1—Length of reduced parallel section = 6D.
EC-H19 14.60 0.59 4.07 0.66 4.54 1.65 1.85
2024-T351 17.99 0.63 3.48 1.71 9.51 1.81 4.81
ASTM A105 25.63 0.77 2.99 1.30 5.06 2.15 3.63
AISI 316 35.93 0.71 1.98 2.68 7.45 2.00 7.49
Inconel 600 41.58 0.67 1.61 1.60 3.86 1.88 4.49
SAE 51410 13.39 0.45 3.61 0.96 7.75 1.25 2.89
Averages: 2.96 6.36
TABLE X1.6 Precision Statistics—% Reduction in Area

EC-H19 79.15 1.93 2.43 2.01 2.54 5.44 5.67
2024-T351 30.41 2.09 6.87 3.59 11.79 5.79 10.01
ASTM A105 65.59 0.84 1.28 1.26 1.92 2.35 3.53
AISI 316 71.49 0.99 1.39 1.60 2.25 2.78 4.50
Inconel 600 59.34 0.67 1.14 0.70 1.18 1.89 1.97
SAE 51410 50.49 1.86 3.69 3.95 7.81 5.21 11.05
Averages: 2.80 4.58
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X2. MEASUREMENT OF SPECIMEN DIMENSIONS
X2.1 Measurement of specimen dimensions is critical in X2.7 Factors which affect GR and R, sometimes
tension testing, and it becomes more critical with decreasing dramatically, and which should be considered in the selection
specimen size, as a given absolute error becomes a larger and evaluation of hardware and procedures include:
relative (percent) error. Measuring devices and procedures X2.7.1 Resolution,
should be selected carefully, so as to minimize measurement
X2.7.2 Verification,
error and provide good repeatability and reproducibility.
X2.7.3 Zeroing,
X2.2 Relative measurement error should be kept at or below X2.7.4 Type of anvil (flat, rounded, or pointed),
1 %, where possible. Ideally, this 1 % error should include not
X2.7.5 Cleanliness of part and anvil surfaces,
only the resolution of the measuring device but also the
variability commonly referred to as repeatability and reproduc- X2.7.6 User-friendliness of measuring device,
ibility. (Repeatability is the ability of any operator to obtain X2.7.7 Stability/temperature variations,
similar measurements in repeated trials. Reproducibility is the X2.7.8 Coating removal,
ability of multiple operators to obtain similar measurements.)
X2.7.9 Operator technique, and
X2.3 Formal evaluation of gage repeatability and reproduc- X2.7.10 Ratchets or other features used to regulate the
ibility (GR and R) by way of a GR and R study is highly clamping force.
recommended. A GR and R study involves having multiple
operators each take two or three measurements of a number of X2.8 Flat anvils are generally preferred for measuring the
parts—in this case, test specimens. Analysis, usually done by dimensions of round or flat specimens which have relatively
computer, involves comparing the observed measurement smooth surfaces. One exception is that rounded or pointed
variations to a tolerance the procedure is to determine confor- anvils must be used in measuring the thickness of curved
mance to. High GR and R percentages (more than 20 %) specimens taken from large-diameter tubing (see Fig. 7), to
indicate much variability relative to the tolerance, whereas low prevent overstating the thickness. (Another concern for these
percentages (10 % or lower) indicate the opposite. The analysis curved specimens is the error that can be introduced through
use of the equation A = W×T; see 7.2.3.)
also estimates, independently, the repeatability and reproduc-
ibility. X2.9 Heavy coatings should generally be removed from at
least one grip end of flat specimens taken from coated products
X2.4 GR and R studies in which nontechnical personnel to permit accurate measurement of base metal thickness,
used different brands and models of hand-held micrometers assuming (a) the base metal properties are what are desired, (b)
have given results varying from about 10 % (excellent) to the coating does not contribute significantly to the strength of
nearly 100 % (essentially useless), relative to a dimensional the product, and (c) coating removal can be easily accom-
tolerance of 0.075 mm [0.003 in.]. The user is therefore plished (some coatings may be easily removed by chemical
advised to be very careful in selecting devices, setting up stripping). Otherwise, it may be advisable to leave the coating
measurement procedures, and training personnel. intact and determine the base metal thickness by an alternate
method. Where this issue may arise, all parties involved in
X2.5 With a 0.075 mm [0.003 in.] tolerance, a 10 % GR and comparison or conformance testing should agree as to whether
R result (exceptionally good, even for digital hand-held mi- or not coatings are to be removed before measurement.
crometers reading to 0.001 mm [0.00005 in.]) indicates that the
total variation due to repeatability and reproducibility is around X2.10 As an example of how the considerations identified
0.0075 [0.0003 in.]. This is less than or equal to 1 % only if all above affect dimensional measurement procedures, consider
dimensions to be measured are greater than or equal to 0.75 the case of measuring the thickness of 0.40 mm [0.015 in.)
mm [0.03 in.]. The relative error in using this device to painted, flat rolled steel specimens. The paint should be
measure thickness of a 0.25 mm [0.01 in.] flat tensile specimen removed prior to measurement, if possible. The measurement
would be 3 %—which is considerably more than that allowed device used should have flat anvils, must read to 0.0025 mm
for force or strain measurement. [0.0001 in.] or better, and must have excellent repeatability and
reproducibility. Since GR and R is a significant concern, it will
X2.6 Dimensional measurement errors can be identified as be best to use a device which has a feature for regulating the
the cause of many out-of-control signals, as indicated by clamping force used, and devices without digital displays
statistical process control (SPC) charts used to monitor tension should be avoided to prevent reading errors. Before use of the
testing procedures. This has been the experience of a produc- device, and periodically during use, the anvils should be
tion laboratory employing SPC methodology and the best cleaned, and the device should be verified or zeroed (if an
hand-held micrometers available (from a GR and R standpoint) electronic display is used) or both. Finally, personnel should be
in testing of 0.45 to 6.35 mm [0.018 to 0.25 in.] flat rolled steel trained and audited periodically to ensure that the measuring
products. device is being used correctly and consistently by all.
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X3. SUGGESTED ACCREDITATION CRITERIA FOR LABORATORIES PERFORMING TENSILE TESTS
X3.1 Scope 1 % from being generated as a result of measurement error,

X3.1.1 The following are specific features that an assessor resolution, and rounding practice.
may check to assess a laboratory’s technical competence, if the
laboratory is performing tests in accordance with Test Methods X3.4 Procedures
E8/E8M. X3.4.1 The test machine shall be set up and zeroed in such
a manner that zero force indication signifies a state of zero
X3.2 Preparation force on the specimen, as indicated in the Zeroing of the Test
X3.2.1 The laboratory should follow documented proce- Machine sections of Test Methods E8/E8M.
NOTE X3.2—Provisions should be made to ensure that zero readings are
dures to ensure that machining or other preparation generates
properly maintained, from test to test. These may include, for example,
specimens conforming to applicable tolerances and require- zeroing after a predetermined number of tests or each time, under zero
ments of Test Methods E8/E8M. Particularly important are force conditions, the indicator exceeds a predetermined value.
those requirements that pertain to the dimensions and finish of
X3.4.2 Upon request, the laboratory should be capable of
reduced sections, as found in the text and in applicable figures.
demonstrating (perhaps through time, force, displacement or
X3.2.2 Where gauge marks are used, the laboratory should extensometer measurements, or both) that the test speeds used
employ documented gauge marking procedures to ensure that conform to the requirements of Test Methods E8/E8M, or other
the marks and gauge lengths comply with the tolerances and standards which take precedence.
guidelines of Test Methods E8/E8M.
X3.4.3 Upon request, the laboratory should be capable of
X3.2.2.1 The gauge marking procedure used should not demonstrating that the offsets and extensions used in determin-
deleteriously affect the test results. ing yield strengths conform to the requirements of Test
NOTE X3.1—Frequent occurrence of fracturing at the gauge marks may Methods E8/E8M and are constructed so as to indicate the
indicate that gage marks have excessive depth or sharpness and may be forces corresponding to the desired offset strain or total strain.
affecting test results. NOTE X3.3—Use caution when performing calculations with extensom-
eter magnification, because the manufacturer may report strain
X3.3 Test Equipment magnification, which relates the strain (not the elongation) to the x-axis
displacement on the stress strain diagram. A user or assessor interested in
X3.3.1 As specified in the Apparatus sections of Test an extensometer’s magnification may use calibration equipment to deter-
Methods E8/E8M, the axis of the test specimen should coin- mine the ratio between elongation and chart travel or may verify a
cide with the center line of the heads of the testing machine, in reported magnification by calculating the Young’s modulus from tests of
order to minimize bending stresses which could affect the specimens of a known nominal modulus.
results. X3.4.4 Measurement of elongation shall conform to re-
X3.3.2 Equipment verification requirements of Practices E4 quirements of Test Methods E8/E8M.
and E83 shall be met. Documentation showing the verification NOTE X3.4—Test Methods E8/E8M permit the measurement and
reporting of elongation at fracture in place of elongation, as is often done
work to have been thorough and technically correct should be in automated testing.
available.
X3.3.2.1 Verification reports shall demonstrate that force X3.4.5 Reduction of area, when required, shall be deter-
and extension readings have been taken at the prescribed mined in accordance with the requirements of Test Methods
intervals and that the prescribed runs have been completed. E8/E8M.
X3.3.3 Extensometers used shall meet all requirements of X3.4.6 Procedures for recording, calculating, and reporting
Test Methods E8/E8M as to the classification of device to be data and test results shall conform to all applicable require-
used for the results determined. For example, an extensometer ments of Test Methods E8/E8M. In addition, wherever
not meeting the Class B2 requirements of Practice E83 may not practical, the procedures should also be in accordance with
be used in determination of offset yield strengths. widely accepted provisions of good laboratory practice, such as
those detailed below.
X3.3.4 Before computerized or automated test equipment is X3.4.6.1 When recording data, personnel should record all
put into routine service, or following a software revision, it is figures that are definite, plus the best estimate of the first figure
recommended that measures be taken to verify proper opera- which is uncertain. (If a result is known to be approximately
tion and result interpretation. Guide E1856 addresses this midway between 26 and 27, 26.5 should be the result recorded
concern. (not 26, 27, or 26.475).
X3.3.5 Micrometers and other devices used in measurement X3.4.6.2 When performing calculations, personnel should
of specimen dimensions should be selected, maintained and avoid compounding of rounding errors. This may be accom-
used in such a manner as to comply with the appendixes of Test plished by performing one large calculation, rather than several
Methods E8/E8M on measurement. Traceability to national calculations using individual results. Alternatively, if multi-
standards should be established for these devices, and reason- step calculations are done, intermediate results should not be
able effort should be employed to prevent errors greater than rounded before use in subsequent calculations.
26
E8/E8M − 21
X3.4.6.3 In rounding, no final result should retain more X3.7.2 Clear, concise, operating instructions should be
significant figures than the least-significant-figure measure- maintained for equipment used in specimen preparation and
ment or data point used in the calculation. tensile testing. These instructions should be readily available to
all qualified operators.
X3.5 Retention
X3.5.1 A retention program appropriate for the nature and X3.7.3 All applicable verification requirements shall be
frequency of testing done in the laboratory should be main- met, as detailed in X3.3.2.
tained. Items that may warrant retention for defined time X3.7.4 It is recommended that special studies and programs
periods include: be employed to monitor and control tensile testing, because
X3.5.1.1 Raw data and forms, tensile test results are easily affected by operators, measuring
X3.5.1.2 Force-elongation or stress-strain charts, devices, and test equipment. Examples of such programs
X3.5.1.3 Computer printouts of curves and test results, include but are not limited to:
X3.5.1.4 Data and results stored on computer discs or hard X3.7.4.1 Round-robin studies, proficiency tests, or other
drives, cross-checks,
X3.5.1.5 Broken specimens,
X3.7.4.2 Repeatability and reproducibility (R and R)
X3.5.1.6 Excess material,
studies,
X3.5.1.7 Test reports, and
X3.5.1.8 Verification reports and certifications. X3.7.4.3 Control charting, and
X3.7.4.4 Determination of typical lab uncertainties for each
X3.6 Environment result typically reported.
X3.6.1 All test equipment should be located and connected
NOTE X3.5—For nondestructive testing, repeatability and reproducibil-
to power sources in such a manner as to minimize the effects ity are often measured by conducting gage R and R studies, as discussed
of vibrations and electrical disturbances on raw data collected, in Appendix X2 of Test Methods E8/E8M. These studies involve repeated
stress-strain charts, and operation of equipment. determination of a test result, using a single part or specimen, so gage R
and Rs are not directly applicable to mechanical properties, which are
X3.7 Controls obtained through destructive testing. (True differences between even the
X3.7.1 Controlled procedures and work instructions should best duplicate specimens manifest themselves in the form of poorer R and
R results than would be obtained for perfect duplicates.) Nevertheless,
cover all aspects of specimen preparation, tensile testing, and quasi-R and R studies conducted with these limitations taken into
result reporting. These documents should be readily available consideration may be helpful in analyzing sources of error and improving
to all involved in the documented tasks. reliability of test results.
X4. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON SPEED OF TESTING AND EXAMPLES
X4.1 Many materials are strain-rate sensitive that is, the years. In this method, the crosshead speed of the machine is
yield strength or tensile strength of the material is a function of adjusted during the linear elastic portion of the curve to achieve
the rate at which the material is being deformed. The yield the desired stress rate (or the speed is set to a predetermined
strength of some materials can change by more than ten percent value known to achieve the desired stress rate). The crosshead
when tested with the slowest and then the highest speeds speed is not adjusted when the material begins to yield. The
permitted by Test Methods E8/E8M. In order to reproduce advantage of this control method is that it does not require any
yield test results, for strain-rate sensitive materials, it is transducers other than the load indicator itself, although, load
important that strain rates during the determination of yield are pacers and stress-rate indicators can be helpful. This method of
similar. control has a limitation in that the strain rate of the specimen
X4.2 The following paragraphs further explain the various at yield depends on the slope of the stress-strain curve (tangent
Control Methods required to be used by Test Methods E8/E8M modulus) and the testing machine stiffness. Because of this, the
when other guidance is not given. When other test speed strain rate of the specimen when yield is determined can be
requirements are specified, those speeds must be followed to different for different specimen sizes, different specimen
comply with this test method. For example, aerospace specifi- configurations, different gripping configurations, and different
cations often require a test speed when determining yield testing machines. This difference in strain rate can affect the
strength to be a strain rate equal to 0.005 6 0.002 mm/mm/min reproducibility of yield strength in strain-rate-sensitive mate-
[in./in./min]; when specified, that speed must be followed in rials.
order to comply with this standard. X4.2.1.1 It is not the intent of this method to run the testing
X4.2.1 Control Method A - Rate of Stressing Method for machine in closed-loop force control, because as the material
Determining Yield Properties – This method has been the begins to yield the testing machine will speed up, possibly to
default method of control in Test Methods E8/E8M for many its maximum speed. However, using closed-loop force control
27
E8/E8M − 21
during the elastic region of the test and switching to an rate control can behave erratically. This control method is not
equivalent crosshead speed prior to yield is an acceptable recommended for materials that yield discontinuously.
method. X4.2.3 Control Method C - Crosshead Speed Control
X4.2.2 Control Method B —Rate of Straining Control Method for Determining Yield Properties—This method can be
Method for Determining Yield Properties - This method is performed on any testing machine that has reasonably good
usually performed with a testing machine that has a closed- crosshead speed control. This method has three advantages. (1)
loop control system that uses feedback from an extensometer to The reproducibility from machine to machine and laboratory to
automatically adjust the speed of the testing machine. laboratory is good. (2) The agreement with Control Method B
However, some skilled operators can monitor a strain rate is good, because the strain rates are similar when the speci-
indicator attached to the extensometer and adjust the speed of men’s yield strength is determined. (3) This method of con-
the testing machine manually to maintain the required strain trolling a testing machine is excellent for materials that yield
rate test speed. To maintain constant strain rate control during discontinuously. The disadvantage of this method of control is
a test, the crosshead speed of the testing machine must slow that the test time to yield can be more than three minutes,
down drastically when the specimen begins to yield. This depending on the material being tested and the compliance of
method has three advantages. (1) The time to achieve yield the testing machine including its grip assemblies.
results is short (about 20 to 40 s). (2) The reproducibility of X4.2.3.1 An example using SI metric units of how to apply
yield strength test results from machine to machine and Control Method C to testing Specimen 1 in Fig. 7 is as follows.
laboratory to laboratory is good. (3) The agreement with the The length of the reduced parallel section, that is, dimension A
results of Control Method C is good, because the strain rates in Fig. 7, is equal to 60 mm. The crosshead speed is determined
are similar when the specimen’s yield strength is determined. per Control Method C by multiplying 60 mm by 0.015
This method has three disadvantages. (1) The testing equip- mm/mm/min to arrive at a crosshead speed of 0.9 mm/min.
ment is generally more expensive. (2) Proper control and safety X4.2.3.2 An example using U.S. customary units of how to
depend on the control parameters to be properly set and that the apply Control Method C to testing Specimen 1 in Fig. 7 is as
extensometer integrity be maintained (accidental slippage of follows. The length of the reduced parallel section, that is,
the extensometer can result in unexpected movement of the dimension A in Fig. 7 is equal to 2.25 in. The crosshead speed
crosshead). Proper safety limits must be set to ensure safety of is determined per Control Method C by multiplying 2.25 in. by
personnel and equipment. (3) When materials have yield points 0.015 in./in./min to arrive at a crosshead speed of 0.034
or yield discontinuously, a machine under closed-loop strain- in./min.
X5. CALCULATING THE YIELD STRENGTH WHEN THE STRESS-STRAIN CURVE DEVIATES FROM IDEAL BEHAVIOR
X5.1 In many cases, the stress-strain diagram deviates from attached to the specimen.
the ideal behavior that Fig. 21 illustrates. To compute the yield
strength by the offset method (7.7.1) or the extension-under- X5.5 Fig. X5.1c illustrates behavior that can occur if the
load method (7.7.2), these deviations should analyzed appro- extensometer slips on the specimen when the force is applied.
priately. X5.6 Fig. X5.1d illustrates the behavior that can occur when
the specimen straightens as the force is applied, due to
X5.2 Fig. X5.1 illustrates a schematic stress-strain diagram
misalignment or residual stress.
with idealized behavior and five types of deviation from ideal
behavior. This appendix suggests methods for computing the X5.7 Fig. X5.1e illustrates the behavior that can occur if the
offset and extension-under-load yield strengths when these specimen slips in the grips and disturbs the extensometer as the
deviations occur. force is applied.
X5.3 Fig. X5.1a shows the ideal behavior. The line OA, X5.8 Fig. X5.1f illustrates the behavior that sometimes
superimposed on the straight-line portion of the stress-strain occurs in bent specimens or specimens with coil set.
curve, intersects the origin, O, of the stress strain diagram. For
the offset method, the line mn is parallel to OA at a distance X X5.9 In all five non-ideal cases, the straight-line portion of
from the intersection of OA with the strain axis. For the the stress-strain curve no longer intersects the origin, O, of the
extension-under-load method, the line pq extends vertically stress-strain diagram. Instead, the line O'A intersects the strain
from the strain axis at a distance Y from the intersection of OA axis at a point O'. In the offset method, the line mn is parallel
with the strain axis. O'A at a distance X from the point O’, the intersection of the
elastic loading line, O'A, with the strain axis. In the extension-
X5.4 Fig. X5.1b illustrates behavior that can occur if the under-load method, the line pq extends vertically from the
extensometer is displaced slightly to negative strains when it is strain axis at a distance Y from the point O'.
28
E8/E8M − 21
a A n q b A n q
YS(EUL=Y %) YS(EUL=Y %)
YS(offset=X %) s YS(offset=X %) s
r r
Stress
Stress
X= specified offset X= specified offset
O m p O' O m p
Strain Strain
c A n q d A n q
s YS(EUL=Y %) YS(EUL=Y %)
YS(offset=X %) YS(offset=X %) s
r r
Stress
Stress
Y = specified extension under load
O O' m p O O' m p
Strain Strain
e A n q f A n q
YS(EUL=Y %) YS(EUL=Y %)
YS(offset=X %) s YS(offset=X %) s
r r
Stress
Stress
Y = specified extension under load Y = specified extension under load

O O' m p O' O m p
Strain Strain
FIG. X5.1 Schematic Stress-strain Diagram
29
E8/E8M − 21
SUMMARY OF CHANGES
Committee E28 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(E8/E8M – 16aɛ1) that may impact the use of this standard.
(1) Section 6.1.5 was added. (2) Note 5 and Note 6 were added.
ASTM International takes no position respecting the validity of any patent rights asserted in connection with any item mentioned
in this standard. Users of this standard are expressly advised that determination of the validity of any such patent rights, and the risk
of infringement of such rights, are entirely their own responsibility.
This standard is subject to revision at any time by the responsible technical committee and must be reviewed every five years and
if not revised, either reapproved or withdrawn. Your comments are invited either for revision of this standard or for additional standards
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This standard is copyrighted by ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959,
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30

Tension Testing of Metallic Materials: Standard Test Methods For

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This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles

Designation: E8/E8M − 21 American Association State

Standard Test Methods for

1. Scope* mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical

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

FIG. 2 Wedge Grips with Liners for Flat Specimens

FIG. 4 Gripping Device for Shouldered-End Specimens

FIG. 3 Gripping Device for Threaded-End Specimens

FIG. 14 Location of Transverse Tension Test Specimen in Ring

FIG. 16 Test Coupons for Castings

FIG. 17 Standard Tension Test Specimen for Malleable Iron

Pressing Area = 645 mm2 [1.00 in.2]

The use of ancillary devices, such as extensometer supports, that may

X1. FACTORS AFFECTING TENSION TEST RESULTS

TABLE X1.1 Precision Statistics—Tensile Strength, MPa [ksi]

TABLE X1.3 Precision Statistics—0.2 % Yield Strength, MPa [ksi]

TABLE X1.4 Precision Statistics—% Elongation in 4D for E8 Specimens

TABLE X1.5 Precision Statistics—% Elongation in 5D for E8M Specimens

TABLE X1.6 Precision Statistics—% Reduction in Area

X2. MEASUREMENT OF SPECIMEN DIMENSIONS

X3. SUGGESTED ACCREDITATION CRITERIA FOR LABORATORIES PERFORMING TENSILE TESTS

X3.1 Scope 1 % from being generated as a result of measurement error,

X4. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON SPEED OF TESTING AND EXAMPLES

X= specified offset X= specified offset

Y = specified extension under load

X= specified offset X= specified offset

Y = specified extension under load Y = specified extension under load

FIG. X5.1 Schematic Stress-strain Diagram

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