Testing Procedure for Tensile Test on Steel Products

Document Code: FMLP-TT-01

Standard Reference: IS 1608 (Part 1): 2018 / ISO 6892-1: 2016 / ASTM E8

Applicable Materials: Steel products (round bar, plates, wires, rods, structural steels, etc.)

1. Objective

To determine the mechanical properties of steel such as Yield Strength, Ultimate Tensile Strength, Percentage Elongation, and Reduction in Area by subjecting the test specimen to a uniaxial tensile load.

2. Apparatus and Equipment

  • Universal Testing Machine (UTM)
  • Extensometer
  • Vernier Caliper / Micrometer
  • Gauge Length Measuring Template
  • Marking tools (scribe/marker)

3. Environmental Conditions

  • Ambient temperature: 10°C to 35°C
  • Relative humidity: Below 85%
  • Vibration-free environment

4. Sample Preparation

  • Specimen as per product type (flat or round)
  • Gauge Length (Lo): Standard (e.g., 5.65√A or 50 mm)
  • Surface: Free from rust/scale/defects
  • Identification: Mark with unique sample ID

5. Procedure

5.1 Mounting the Specimen

Secure the specimen axially in UTM jaws and attach extensometer.

5.2 Zero Load and Gauge Reset

Ensure zero load and reset extensometer or note gauge length.

5.3 Apply Load

Apply tensile load gradually. Follow standard strain rate guidelines (typically 0.00025–0.002/s).

5.4 Record Readings

  • Load at Yield Point
  • Maximum Load (UTS)
  • Final Elongation
  • Reduction in Area (if applicable)

6. Calculations

6.1 Yield Strength (YS)

YS = Load at Yield Point (N) / Original Cross-Section Area (mm²)

6.2 Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS)

UTS = Maximum Load (N) / Original Cross-Section Area (mm²)

6.3 Percentage Elongation (%El)

%El = ((Lf - Lo) / Lo) × 100
Where Lo = Original Gauge Length, Lf = Final Gauge Length

6.4 Reduction in Area (RA%)

RA% = ((A0 - Af) / A0) × 100
Where A0 = Original Area, Af = Final Area after fracture

7. Acceptance Criteria

As per applicable product standard (IS 2062, IS 1786, ASTM A36, etc.).

8. Precautions

  • Ensure proper alignment to avoid bending
  • Use only calibrated equipment
  • Don’t shock-load the sample
  • Record fracture mode/type

9. Documentation

Include the following in test report:

  • Sample ID
  • Pre/Post Dimensions
  • All load and calculation data
  • Fracture observation
  • Operator & date
  • UTM ID & calibration status

10. Reference Standards

  • IS 1608 (Part 1): 2018
  • ISO 6892-1: 2016
  • ASTM E8 / E8M
  • Material-specific standards (e.g., IS 2062, IS 1786)