How to Tensile Test ASTMs

Gather the specimen. Look up the test speed provided by ASTM for the specific specimen. There are material specifications for test speeds using the Instron for each type of material. For instance, the test speeds could range from 5 to 50mm/min. Different specimens will have different resistance to force, or modulus, and a different point of permanent deformation as well as a different force against elongation. It is therefore important to find the specific test speed for the specific specimen while using tensile testing equipment.

Place the specimen in the grips of the Instron. The grips should also be specified for the specific specimen. The grips on the Instron pull the specimen until failure; therefore, it is important to locate the specific grip separation before placing the specimen into the Instron. Look in the ASTM guide on the particular specimen for gripping aligning. Correct alignment of the grips and specimen is important; any offset in the alignment can create bending stress and alter the tensile stress reading. The extensometer inside the Instron measures and determines the elongation and tensile of the specimen. There is also a thermal chamber in the Instron. The specimen passes through the chamber and the amount of temperature the specimen can withstand is tested.

Analyze the results from the tensile test. Data is gathered using the software provided. In addition, the software allows the user to analyze the data of the tensile test. The data can be analyzed for tensile strength at the yield and at the breaking point, the tensile modulus, strain, temperature, elongation and percent elongation at yield and elongation and percent elongation at the breaking point.