An American National Standard

Designation: E 8 – 04 American Association State

Highway and Transportation Officials Standard
AASHTO No.: T68

Standard Test Methods for

Tension Testing of Metallic Materials1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E 8; 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 (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the Department of Defense.

1. Scope* A 370 Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing

1.1 These test methods cover the tension testing of metallic of Steel Products
materials in any form at room temperature, specifically, the B 557 Test Methods of Tension Testing Wrought and Cast
methods of determination of yield strength, yield point elon- Aluminum- and Magnesium-Alloy Products
gation, tensile strength, elongation, and reduction of area. E 4 Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
E 6 Terminology Relating to Methods of Mechanical Test-
NOTE 1—A complete metric companion to Test Methods E 8 has been ing
developed, therefore, no metric equivalents are shown in these test
E 8M Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Mate-
methods. Committee E28 was granted an exception in 1997 by the
Committee on Standards to maintain E8 and E8M as separate companion rials [Metric]
standards rather than combining standards as recommended by the Form E 29 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to
and Style Manual. Determine Conformance with Specifications
NOTE 2—Gage lengths in these test methods are required to be 4D for E 83 Practice for Verification and Classification of Exten-
most round specimens. Test specimens made from powder metallurgy someters
(P/M) materials are exempt from this requirement by industry-wide E 208 Test Method for Conducting Drop-Weight Test to
agreement to keep the pressing of the material to a specific projected area
and density.
Determine Nil-Ductility Transition Temperature of Ferritic
NOTE 3—Exceptions to the provisions of these test methods may need Steels
to be made in individual specifications or test methods for a particular E 345 Test Methods of Tension Testing of Metallic Foil
material. For examples, see Test Methods and Definitions A 370 and Test E 691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to
Methods B 557. Determine the Precision of a Test Method
NOTE 4—Room temperature shall be considered to be 50 to 100°F E 1012 Practice for Verification of Specimen Alignment
unless otherwise specified.
Under Tensile Loading
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the 3. Terminology
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- 3.1 Definitions—The definitions of terms relating to tension
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica- testing appearing in Terminology E 6 shall be considered as
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. applying to the terms used in these test methods of tension
testing. Additional terms being defined are as follows:
2. Referenced Documents 3.1.1 discontinuous yielding—in a uniaxial test, a hesitation
2.1 ASTM Standards: 2 or fluctuation of force observed at the onset of plastic defor-
A 356/A 356M Specification for Steel Castings, Carbon, mation, due to localized yielding. (The stress-strain curve need
Low Alloy, and Stainless Steel, Heavy-Walled for Steam not appear to be discontinuous.)
Turbines 3.1.2 lower yield strength, LYS [FL−2]—in a uniaxial test,
the minimum stress recorded during discontinuous yielding,
ignoring transient effects.
1
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E28 on 3.1.3 upper yield strength, UYS [FL−2]— in a uniaxial test,
Mechanical Testing and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E28.04 on the first stress maximum (stress at first zero slope) associated
Uniaxial Testing.
Current edition approved April 1, 2004. Published May 2004. Originally with discontinuous yielding at or near the onset of plastic
approved in 1924. Last previous edition appproved 2003 as E 8 – 03. deformation.
2
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 01.02. 3.1.4 yield point elongation, YPE— in a uniaxial test, the
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
strain (expressed in percent) separating the stress-strain curve’s
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on first point of zero slope from the point of transition from
the ASTM website. discontinuous yielding to uniform strain hardening. If the

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

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.

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 E 8 – 04
transition occurs over a range of strain, the YPE end point is supported over their entire lengths by the heads of the testing
the intersection between (a) a horizontal line drawn tangent to machine. This requires that liners of several thicknesses be
the curve at the last zero slope and ( b) a line drawn tangent to available to cover the range of specimen thickness. For proper
the strain hardening portion of the stress-strain curve at the gripping, it is desirable that the entire length of the serrated
point of inflection. If there is no point at or near the onset of face of each wedge be in contact with the specimen. Proper
yielding at which the slope reaches zero, the material has 0 % alignment of wedge grips and liners is illustrated in Fig. 2. For
YPE. short specimens and for specimens of many materials it is
3.1.5 uniform elongation, Elu, [%]—the elongation deter- generally necessary to use machined test specimens and to use
mined at the maximum force sustained by the test piece just a special means of gripping to ensure that the specimens, when
prior to necking or fracture, or both. under load, shall be as nearly as possible in uniformly
3.1.5.1 Discussion—Uniform elongation includes both elas- distributed pure axial tension (see 5.2.3, 5.2.4, and 5.2.5).
tic and plastic elongation. 5.2.3 Grips for Threaded and Shouldered Specimens and
Brittle Materials—A schematic diagram of a gripping device
4. Significance and Use for threaded-end specimens is shown in Fig. 3, while Fig. 4
4.1 Tension tests provide information on the strength and shows a device for gripping specimens with shouldered ends.
ductility of materials under uniaxial tensile stresses. This Both of these gripping devices should be attached to the heads
information may be useful in comparisons of materials, alloy of the testing machine through properly lubricated spherical-
development, quality control, and design under certain circum- seated bearings. The distance between spherical bearings
stances. should be as great as feasible.
4.2 The results of tension tests of specimens machined to 5.2.4 Grips for Sheet Materials—The self-adjusting grips
standardized dimensions from selected portions of a part or shown in Fig. 5 have proven satisfactory for testing sheet
material may not totally represent the strength and ductility materials that cannot be tested satisfactorily in the usual type of
properties of the entire end product or its in-service behavior in wedge grips.
different environments. 5.2.5 Grips for Wire—Grips of either the wedge or snubbing
4.3 These test methods are considered satisfactory for ac- types as shown in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 or flat wedge grips may be
ceptance testing of commercial shipments. The test methods used.
have been used extensively in the trade for this purpose. 5.3 Dimension-Measuring Devices—Micrometers and other
5. Apparatus devices used for measuring linear dimensions shall be accurate
and precise to at least one half the smallest unit to which the
5.1 Testing Machines—Machines used for tension testing individual dimension is required to be measured.
shall conform to the requirements of Practices E 4. The forces 5.4 Extensometers— Extensometers used in tension testing
used in determining tensile strength and yield strength shall be shall conform to the requirements of Practice E 83 for the
within the verified force application range of the testing classifications specified by the procedure section of this test
machine as defined in Practices E 4. method. Extensometers shall be used and verified to include
5.2 Gripping Devices: the strains corresponding to the yield strength and elongation at
5.2.1 General—Various types of gripping devices may be fracture (if determined).
used to transmit the measured force applied by the testing 5.4.1 Extensometers with gage lengths equal to or shorter
machine to the test specimens. To ensure axial tensile stress than the nominal gage length of the specimen (dimension
within the gage length, the axis of the test specimen should shown as “G-Gage Length” in the accompanying figures) may
coincide with the center line of the heads of the testing be used to determine the yield behavior. For specimens without
machine. Any departure from this requirement may introduce a reduced section (for example, full cross sectional area
bending stresses that are not included in the usual stress specimens of wire, rod, or bar), the extensometer gage length
computation (force divided by cross-sectional area). for the determination of yield behavior shall not exceed 80 %
NOTE 5—The effect of this eccentric force application may be illus- of the distance between grips. For measuring elongation at
trated by calculating the bending moment and stress thus added. For a fracture with an appropriate extensometer, the gage length of
standard 1⁄2-in. diameter specimen, the stress increase is 1.5 percentage the extensometer shall be equal to the nominal gage length
points for each 0.001 in. of eccentricity. This error increases to 2.24
required for the specimen being tested.
percentage points/0.001 in. for a 0.350-in. diameter specimen and to 3.17
percentage points/0.001 in. for a 0.250-in. diameter specimen.
NOTE 6—Alignment methods are given in Practice E 1012. 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 11⁄2 in. or less in thickness,
must be flat and parallel. For best results, the wedges should be diameter, or distance between flats.

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 E 8 – 04

Dimensions
Standard Specimens Subsize Specimen
Plate-Type, 11⁄2-in. Wide Sheet-Type, 1⁄2-in. Wide ⁄ -in. Wide
14

in. in. in.

G—Gage length (Note 1 and Note 2) 8.006 0.01 2.0006 0.005 1.000 6 0.003
W—Width (Note 3 and Note 4) 11⁄2 + 1⁄8 , − 1⁄4 0.5006 0.010 0.250 6 0.005
T—Thickness (Note 5) thickness of material
R—Radius of fillet, min (Note 6) 1 1⁄2 ⁄
14

L—Over-all length, (Note 2, Note 7 and Note 8) 18 8 4

A—Length of reduced section, min 9 21⁄4 11⁄4
B—Length of grip section, (Note 8) 3 2 11⁄4
C—Width of grip section, approximate (Note 4 and Note 9) 2 3⁄4 3⁄8

NOTE 1—For the 11⁄2-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 section. Either a set of nine or more punch marks 1 in. apart, or one or more pairs of punch marks 8 in. apart may be used.
NOTE 2—When elongation measurements of 11⁄2-in. wide specimens are not required, a minimum length of reduced section (A) of 21⁄4 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 section shall not differ in width by more than 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 0.015, 0.005, or 0.003 in.,
respectively, 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
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 11⁄2-in.
wide specimens shall be 3⁄16 in. Maximum thickness of 1⁄2-in. and 1⁄4-in. wide specimens shall be 3⁄4 in. and 1⁄4 in., respectively.
NOTE 6—For the 11⁄2-in. wide specimen, a 1⁄2-in. minimum radius at the ends of the reduced section is permitted for steel specimens under 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 1⁄4-in. wide specimens, the over-all length should be as large as the material will
permit, up to 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 1⁄2-in. wide specimens is over 3⁄8 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 section within
0.10, 0.05 and 0.005 in., respectively. However, for referee testing and when required by product specifications, the ends of the 1⁄2-in. wide specimen shall
be symmetrical within 0.01 in.
NOTE 11—For each specimen type, the radii of all fillets shall be equal to each other within a tolerance of 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 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 2W 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

6.1.2.2 Midway from the center to the surface for products 6.1.3.1 The reduced sections of prepared specimens should
over 11⁄2 in. in thickness, diameter, or distance between flats. be free of cold work, notches, chatter marks, grooves, gouges,
6.1.3 Specimen Machining—Improperly prepared test burrs, rough surfaces or edges, overheating, or any other
specimens often are the reason for unsatisfactory and incorrect condition which can deleteriously affect the properties to be
test results. It is important, therefore, that care be exercised in measured.
the preparation of specimens, particularly in the machining, to
maximize precision and minimize bias in test results.

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 E 8 – 04

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

NOTE 7—Punching or blanking of the reduced section may produce

significant cold work or shear burrs, or both, along the edges which should
be removed by machining.
6.1.3.2 Within the reduced section of rectangular speci-
mens, edges or corners should not be ground or abraded in a
manner which could cause the actual cross-sectional area of the
specimen to be significantly different from the calculated area.
6.1.3.3 For brittle materials, large radius fillets at the ends of
the gage length should be used.
6.1.3.4 The cross-sectional area of the specimen should be FIG. 5 Gripping Devices for Sheet and Wire Specimens
smallest at the center of the reduced section to ensure fracture
within the gage length. For this reason, a small taper is
permitted in the reduced section of each of the specimens 6.1.4 Specimen Surface Finish—When materials are tested
described in the following sections. with surface conditions other than as manufactured, the surface

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 E 8 – 04
form of sheet, plate, flat wire, strip, band, hoop, rectangles, and
shapes ranging in nominal thickness from 0.005 to 3⁄4 in. When
product specifications so permit, other types of specimens may
be used, as provided in 6.2, 6.4, and 6.5.
NOTE 9—Test Methods E 345 may be used for tension testing of
materials in thicknesses up to 0.0059 in.
6.3.2 Pin ends as shown in Fig. 7 may be used. In order to
avoid buckling in tests of thin and high-strength materials, it
may be neccessary to use stiffening plates at the grip ends.
6.4 Round Specimens:
6.4.1 The standard 0.500-in. diameter round test specimen
shown in Fig. 8 is used quite generally for testing metallic
FIG. 6 Snubbing Device for Testing Wire materials, both cast and wrought.
6.4.2 Fig. 8 also shows small-size specimens proportional to
finish of the test specimens should be as provided in the the standard specimen. These may be used when it is necessary
applicable product specifications. to test material from which the standard specimen or specimens
NOTE 8—Particular attention should be given to the uniformity and
shown in Fig. 1 cannot be prepared. Other sizes of small round
quality of surface finish of specimens for high strength and very low specimens may be used. In any such small-size specimen it is
ductility materials since this has been shown to be a factor in the important that the gage length for measurement of elongation
variability of test results. be four times the diameter of the specimen.
6.2 Plate-Type Specimens—The standard plate-type test 6.4.3 The shape of the ends of the specimen outside of the
specimen is shown in Fig. 1. This specimen is used for testing gage length shall be suitable to the material and of a shape to
metallic materials in the form of plate, shapes, and flat material fit the holders or grips of the testing machine so that the forces
having a nominal thickness of 3⁄16 in. or over. When product may be applied axially. Fig. 9 shows specimens with various
specifications so permit, other types of specimens may be used, types of ends that have given satisfactory results.
as provided in 6.3, 6.4, and 6.5. 6.5 Specimens for Sheet, Strip, Flat Wire, and Plate—In
6.3 Sheet-Type Specimens: testing sheet, strip, flat wire, and plate, use a specimen type
6.3.1 The standard sheet-type test specimen is shown in Fig. appropriate for the nominal thickness of the material, as
1. This specimen is used for testing metallic materials in the described in the following:

Dimensions in.
G—Gage length 2.000 6 0.005
W—Width (Note 1) 0.500 6 0.010
T—Thickness, max (Note 2) 5⁄8

R—Radius of fillet, min (Note 3) 1⁄2

L—Over-all length, min 8

A—Length of reduced section, min 21⁄4
B—Length of grip section, min 2
C—Width of grip section, approximate 2
D—Diameter of hole for pin, min (Note 4) 1⁄2

E—Edge distance from pin, approximate 11⁄2

F—Distance from hole to fillet, min 1⁄2

NOTE 1—The ends of the reduced section shall differ in width by not more than 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 0.005 in. 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 1⁄2 in. may be needed.
NOTE 4—Holes must be on center line of reduced section, within 60.002 in.
NOTE 5—Variations of dimensions C, D, E, F, and L may be used that will permit failure within the gage length.
FIG. 7 Pin-Loaded Tension Test Specimen with 2-in. Gage Length

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 E 8 – 04

Dimensions
Standard Specimen Small-Size Specimens Proportional to Standard
in. in. in. in. in.

Nominal Diameter 0.500 0.350 0.250 0.160 0.113

G—Gage length 2.000 6 0.005 1.400 6 0.005 1.000 6 0.005 0.640 6 0.005 0.450 6 0.005
D—Diameter (Note 1) 0.500 6 0.010 0.350 6 0.007 0.250 6 0.005 0.160 6 0.003 0.113 6 0.002
R—Radius of fillet, min 3⁄8 1⁄4 3⁄16 5⁄32 3⁄32

A—Length of reduced section, min (Note 2) 21⁄4 13⁄4 11⁄4 3⁄4 5⁄8

NOTE 1—The reduced 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 section may be increased to accommodate an extensometer of any convenient gage length. Reference
marks for the measurement of elongation should, nevertheless, be spaced at the indicated gage length.
NOTE 3—The gage 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 load shall be axial (see Fig. 9). 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. 8 and 9, the gage lengths are equal to four times the nominal diameter. In some product specifications other
specimens may be provided for, but unless the 4-to-1 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 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—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. 8 Standard 0.500-in. Round Tension Test Specimen with 2-in. Gage Length and Examples of Small-Size Specimens Proportional to
the Standard Specimen

6.5.1 For material with a nominal thickness of 0.0005- prescribed in product specifications. In testing wire, rod, or bar
0.1875 in., use the sheet-type specimen described in 6.3. that has a 1⁄8-in. or larger diameter, unless otherwise specified,
6.5.2 For material with a nominal thickness of 0.1875- a gage length equal to four times the diameter shall be used.
0.500 in., use either the sheet-type specimen of 6.3 or the The total length of the specimens shall be at least equal to the
plate-type specimen of 6.2. gage length plus the length of material required for the full use
6.5.3 For material with a nominal thickness of 0.500–0.750 of the grips employed.
in., use either the sheet-type specimen of 6.3, the plate-type 6.6.2 For wire of octagonal, hexagonal, or square cross
specimen of 6.2, or the largest practical size of round specimen section, for rod or bar of round cross section where the
described in 6.4. specimen required in 6.6.1 is not practicable, and for rod or bar
6.5.4 For material with a nominal thickness of 0.750 in., or of octagonal, hexagonal, or square cross section, one of the
greater, use the plate-type specimen of paragraph 6.2 or the following types of specimens shall be used:
largest practical size of round specimen described in 6.4. 6.6.2.1 Full Cross Section (Note 10)—It is permissible to
6.5.4.1 If the product specifications permit, material of a reduce the test section slightly with abrasive cloth or paper, or
thickness of 0.750 in., or greater may be tested using a machine it sufficiently to ensure fracture within the gage
modified sheet-type specimen conforming to the configuration marks. For material not exceeding 0.188 in. in diameter or
shown by Fig. 2. The thickness of this modified specimen must distance between flats, the cross-sectional area may be reduced
be machined to 0.400 +/- 0.020 in., and must be uniform within to not less than 90 % of the original area without changing the
0.004 in. throughout the reduced section. In the event of shape of the cross section. For material over 0.188 in. in
disagreement, a round specimen shall be used as the referee diameter or distance between flats, the diameter or distance
specimen. between flats may be reduced by not more than 0.010 in.
6.6 Specimens for Wire, Rod, and Bar: without changing the shape of the cross section. Square,
6.6.1 For round wire, rod, and bar, test specimens having the hexagonal, or octagonal wire or rod not exceeding 0.188 in.
full cross-sectional area of the wire, rod, or bar shall be used between flats may be turned to a round having a cross-sectional
wherever practicable. The gage length for the measurement of area not smaller than 90 % of the area of the maximum
elongation of wire less than 1⁄8 in. in diameter shall be as inscribed circle. Fillets, preferably with a radius of 3⁄8 in., but

6
 E 8 – 04

Dimensions
Specimen 1 Specimen 2 Specimen 3 Specimen 4 Specimen 5
in. in. in. in. in.
G—Gage length 2.000 6 0.005 2.000 6 0.005 2.000 6 0.005 2.000 6 0.005 2.000 6 0.005
D—Diameter (Note 1) 0.500 6 0.010 0.500 6 0.010 0.5006 0.010 0.5006 0.010 0.5006 0.010
R—Radius of fillet, min 3⁄8 3⁄8 1⁄16 3⁄8 3⁄8

A—Length of reduced section 21⁄4 , min 21⁄4 , min 4, approximately 21⁄4 , min 21⁄4 , min
L—Over-all length, approximate 5 51⁄2 51⁄2 43⁄4 91⁄2
B—Length of end section (Note 3) 13⁄8 , approximately 1, approximately 3⁄4 , approximately 1⁄2 , approximately 3, min
C—Diameter of end section 3⁄4 3⁄4 23⁄32 7⁄8 3⁄4

E—Length of shoulder and fillet ... 5⁄8 ... 3⁄4 5⁄8

section, approximate
F—Diameter of shoulder ... ⁄
58 ... ⁄
58 ⁄
19 32

NOTE 1—The reduced section may have a gradual taper from the ends toward the center with the ends not more than 0.005 in. 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 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.
FIG. 9 Various Types of Ends for Standard Round Tension Test Specimens

not less than 1⁄8 in., shall be used at the ends of the reduced 6.6.2.2 For rod and bar, the largest practical size of round
sections. Square, hexagonal, or octagonal rod over 0.188 in. specimen as described in 6.4 may be used in place of a test
between flats may be turned to a round having a diameter no specimen of full cross section. Unless otherwise specified in
smaller than 0.010 in. less than the original distance between the product specification, specimens shall be parallel to the
flats. direction of rolling or extrusion.
NOTE 10—The ends of copper or copper alloy specimens may be 6.7 Specimens for Rectangular Bar— In testing rectangular
flattened 10 to 50 % from the original dimension in a jig similar to that bar one of the following types of specimens shall be used:
shown in Fig. 10, to facilitate fracture within the gage marks. In flattening 6.7.1 Full Cross Section—It is permissible to reduce the
the opposite ends of the test specimen, care shall be taken to ensure that width of the specimen throughout the test section with abrasive
the four flattened surfaces are parallel and that the two parallel surfaces on cloth or paper, or by machining sufficiently to facilitate fracture
the same side of the axis of the test specimen lie in the same plane. within the gage marks, but in no case shall the reduced width
be less than 90 % of the original. The edges of the midlength
of the reduced section not less than 3⁄4 in. in length shall be
parallel to each other and to the longitudinal axis of the
specimen within 0.002 in. Fillets, preferably with a radius of 3⁄8
in. but not less than 1⁄8 in. shall be used at the ends of the
reduced sections.
6.7.2 Rectangular bar of thickness small enough to fit the
grips of the testing machine but of too great width may be
reduced in width by cutting to fit the grips, after which the cut
surfaces shall be machined or cut and smoothed to ensure
failure within the desired section. The reduced width shall be
not less than the original bar thickness. Also, one of the types
of specimens described in 6.2, 6.3, and 6.4 may be used.
6.8 Shapes, Structural and Other—In testing shapes other
than those covered by the preceding sections, one of the types
FIG. 10 Squeezing Jig for Flattening Ends of Full-Size Tension of specimens described in 6.2, 6.3, and 6.4 shall be used.
Test Specimens 6.9 Specimens for Pipe and Tube (Note 11):

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 E 8 – 04
6.9.1 For all small tube (Note 11), particularly sizes 1 in.
and under in nominal outside diameter, and frequently for
larger sizes, except as limited by the testing equipment, it is
standard practice to use tension test specimens of full-size
tubular sections. Snug-fitting metal plugs shall be inserted far
enough into the ends of such tubular specimens to permit the
testing machine jaws to grip the specimens properly. The plugs
shall not extend into that part of the specimen on which the
elongation is measured. Elongation is measured over a length
of 4D unless otherwise stated in the product specification. Fig.
11 shows a suitable form of plug, the location of the plugs in
the specimen, and the location of the specimen in the grips of NOTE 1—The edges of the blank for the specimen shall be cut parallel
the testing machine. to each other.
FIG. 12 Location from Which Longitudinal Tension Test
NOTE 11—The term “tube” is used to indicate tubular products in Specimens Are to be Cut from Large-Diameter Tube
general, and includes pipe, tube, and tubing.
6.9.2 For large-diameter tube that cannot be tested in full specimens for large tube under 3⁄4 in. in wall thickness shall be
section, longitudinal tension test specimens shall be cut as either of the small-size specimens shown in Fig. 8 or of the
indicated in Fig. 12. Specimens from welded tube shall be form and dimensions shown for Specimen 2 in Fig. 13. When
located approximately 90° from the weld. If the tube-wall using the latter specimen, either or both surfaces of the
thickness is under 3⁄4 in., either a specimen of the form and specimen may be machined to secure a uniform thickness,
dimensions shown in Fig. 13 or one of the small-size speci- provided not more than 15 % of the normal wall thickness is
mens proportional to the standard 1⁄2-in. specimen, as men- removed from each surface. For large tube 3⁄4 in. and over in
tioned in 6.4.2 and shown in Fig. 8, shall be used. Specimens wall thickness, the standard specimen shown in Fig. 8 shall be
of the type shown in Fig. 13 may be tested with grips having used for transverse tension tests. Specimens for transverse
a surface contour corresponding to the curvature of the tube. tension tests on large welded tube to determine the strength of
When grips with curved faces are not available, the ends of the welds shall be located perpendicular to the welded seams, with
specimens may be flattened without heating. If the tube-wall the welds at about the middle of their lengths.
thickness is 3⁄4 in. or over, the standard specimen shown in Fig. 6.10 Specimens for Forgings—For testing forgings, the
8 shall be used. largest round specimen described in 6.4 shall be used. If round
NOTE 12—In clamping of specimens from pipe and tube (as may be specimens are not feasible, then the largest specimen described
done during machining) or in flattening specimen ends (for gripping), care in 6.5 shall be used.
must be taken so as not to subject the reduced section to any deformation 6.10.1 For forgings, specimens shall be taken as provided in
or cold work, as this would alter the mechanical properties. the applicable product specifications, either from the predomi-
6.9.3 Transverse tension test specimens for tube may be nant or thickest part of the forging from which a coupon can be
taken from rings cut from the ends of the tube as shown in Fig. obtained, or from a prolongation of the forging, or from
14. Flattening of the specimen may be either after separating as separately forged coupons representative of the forging. When
in A, or before separating as in B. Transverse tension test not otherwise specified, the axis of the specimen shall be
parallel to the direction of grain flow.
6.11 Specimens for Castings—In testing castings either the
standard specimen shown in Fig. 8 or the specimen shown in
Fig. 15 shall be used unless otherwise provided in the product
specifications.
6.11.1 Test coupons for castings shall be made as shown in
Fig. 16 and Table 1.
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 Fig. 19 and Fig. 20 shall be used, unless
otherwise provided in the product specifications. When making
NOTE 1—The diameter of the plug shall have a slight taper from the line
test specimens in accordance with Fig. 19, shallow transverse
limiting the test machine jaws to the curved section.
FIG. 11 Metal Plugs for Testing Tubular Specimens, Proper
grooves, or ridges, may be pressed in the ends to allow
Location of Plugs in Specimen and of Specimen in Heads of gripping by jaws machined to fit the grooves or ridges. Because
Testing Machine of shape and other factors, the flat unmachined tensile test

8
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Dimensions
Specimen 1 Specimen 2 Specimen 3 Specimen 4 Specimen 5 Specimen 6 Specimen 7
in. in. in. in. in. in. in.
G—Gage length 2.000 6 0.005 2.000 6 0.005 8.00 6 0.01 2.0006 0.005 4.000 6 0.005 2.000 6 0.005 4.000 6 0.005
W—Width (Note 1) 0.500 6 0.010 11⁄2 + 1⁄8 − 1⁄4 11⁄2 + 1⁄8 − 1⁄4 0.7506 0.031 0.750 6 0.031 1.000 6 0.062 1.000 6 0.062
T—Thickness measured thickness of specimen
R—Radius of fillet, min 1⁄2 1 1 1 1 1 1
A—Length of reduced 21⁄4 21⁄4 9 21⁄4 41⁄2 21⁄4 ⁄
12

section, min
B—Length of grip sec- 3 3 3 3 3 3 3
tion, min (Note 2)
C—Width of grip sec- ⁄
11 16 2 2 1 1 11⁄2 11⁄2
tion, approximate
(Note 3)

NOTE 1—The ends of the reduced section shall differ in width by not more than 0.002 in. for specimens 1 and 4, and not more than 0.005 in. for
specimens 2, 3, 5, 6, and 7. 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 0.005
in. greater than the width at the center for 2-in. gage length specimens, not more than 0.008 in. greater than the width at the center for 4-in. gage length
specimens, and not more than 0.015 in. greater than the width at the center for 8-in. gage length specimens.
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 section within 0.05 in. for specimens 1, 4, and 5, and 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 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 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 section 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 2W 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. 13 Tension Test Specimens for Large-Diameter Tubular Products

7.2 Measurement of Dimensions of Test Specimens:

7.2.1 To determine the cross-sectional area of a test speci-
men, measure the dimensions of the cross section at the center
of the reduced section. For referee testing of specimens under
3⁄16 in. in their least dimension, measure the dimensions where

FIG. 14 Location of Transverse Tension Test Specimen in Ring the least cross-sectional area is found. Measure and record the
Cut from Tubular Products cross-sectional dimensions of tension test specimens 0.200 in.
and over to the nearest 0.001 in.; the cross-sectional dimen-
sions from 0.100 in. but less than 0.200 in., to the nearest
specimen (Fig. 19) in the heat treated condition will have an 0.0005 in.; the cross-sectional dimensions from 0.020 in. but
ultimate tensile strength of 50 % to 85 % of that determined in less than 0.100 in., to the nearest 0.0001 in.; and when
a machined round tensile test specimen (Fig. 20) of like practical, the cross-sectional dimensions less than 0.020 in., to
composition and processing. at least the nearest 1 % but in all cases to at least the nearest
0.0001 in.
7. Procedures
NOTE 13—Accurate and precise measurement of specimen dimensions
7.1 Preparation of the Test Machine— Upon startup, or can be one of the most critical aspects of tension testing, depending on
following a prolonged period of machine inactivity, the test specimen geometry. See Appendix X2 for additional information.
machine should be exercised or warmed up to normal operating NOTE 14—Rough surfaces due to the manufacturing process such as hot
temperatures to minimize errors that may result from transient rolling, metallic coating, etc., may lead to inaccuracy of the computed
conditions. areas greater than the measured dimensions would indicate. Therefore,

9
 E 8 – 04

where:
A = approximate cross-sectional area, in.2,
W = width of the specimen in the reduced section, in., and
T = measured wall thickness of the specimen, in.
NOTE 16—See X2.8 for cautionary information on measurements and
calculations for specimens taken from large-diameter tubing.
7.3 Gage Length Marking of Test Specimens:
7.3.1 The gage length for the determination of elongation
Dimensions
shall be in accordance with the product specifications for the
Specimen 1 Specimen 2 Specimen 3
material being tested. Gage marks shall be stamped lightly with
in. in. in. a punch, scribed lightly with dividers or drawn with ink as
G—Length of parallel section Shall be equal to or greater than diameter D preferred. For material that is sensitive to the effect of slight
D—Diameter 0.500 6 0.010 0.750 6 0.015 1.25 6 0.02
R—Radius of fillet, min 1 1 2
notches and for small specimens, the use of layout ink will aid
A—Length of reduced section, 11⁄4 11⁄2 21⁄4 in locating the original gage marks after fracture.
min 7.3.2 For materials where the specified elongation is 3 % or
L—Over-all length, min 33⁄4 4 63⁄8
B—Length of end section, 1 1 13⁄4
less, measure the original gage length to the nearest 0.002 in.
approximate prior to testing.
C—Diameter of end section, ⁄
34 11⁄8 17⁄8 7.4 Zeroing of the Testing Machine:
approximate
E—Length of shoulder, min ⁄
14 ⁄
14 5⁄16 7.4.1 The testing machine shall be set up in such a manner
F—Diameter of shoulder ⁄ 6 1⁄64
58 15 16⁄ 6 1⁄64 17⁄16 6 1⁄64 that zero force indication signifies a state of zero force on the
specimen. Any force (or preload) imparted by the gripping of
NOTE 1—Note—The reduced section and shoulders (dimensions A, D, the specimen (see Note 17) must be indicated by the force
E, F, G, and R) shall be as shown, but the ends may be of any form to fit measuring system unless the preload is physically removed
the holders of the testing machine in such a way that the force can be axial.
prior to testing. Artificial methods of removing the preload on
Commonly the ends are threaded and have the dimensions B and C given
above. the specimen, such as taring it out by a zero adjust pot or
FIG. 15 Standard Tension Test Specimen for Cast Iron removing it mathematically by software, are prohibited be-
cause these would affect the accuracy of the test results.
NOTE 17—Preloads generated by gripping of specimens may be either
cross-sectional dimensions of test specimens with rough surfaces due to tensile or compressive in nature and may be the result of such things as:
processing may be measured and recorded to the nearest 0.001 in. — grip design
NOTE 15—See X2.9 for cautionary information on measurements taken
— malfunction of gripping apparatus (sticking, binding, etc.)
from coated metal products.
— excessive gripping force
7.2.2 Determine the cross-sectional area of a full-size test — sensitivity of the control loop
specimen of uniform but nonsymmetrical cross section by NOTE 18—It is the operator’s responsibility to verify that an observed
determining the mass of a length not less than 20 times longer preload is acceptable and to ensure that grips operate in a smooth manner.
than the largest cross-sectional dimension. Unless otherwise specified, it is recommended that momentary (dynamic)
7.2.2.1 Determine the weight to the nearest 0.5 % or less. forces due to gripping not exceed 20 % of the material’s nominal yield
7.2.2.2 The cross-sectional area is equal to the mass of the strength and that static preloads not exceed 10 % of the material’s nominal
yield strength.
specimen divided by the length and divided by the density of
the material. 7.5 Gripping of the Test Specimen:
7.2.3 When using specimens of the type shown in Fig. 13 7.5.1 For specimens with reduced sections, gripping of the
taken from tubes, the cross-sectional area shall be determined specimen shall be restricted to the grip section, because
as follows: gripping in the reduced section or in the fillet can significantly
If D/W #6: affect test results.
A 5 [~W/4! 3 ~D 2 2 W 2!1/2# 1 [~D 2/4!
7.6 Speed of Testing:
3 arcsin ~W/D!# 2 [~W/4! 3 ~~D 2 2T! 2 2 W 2!1/2#
7.6.1 Speed of testing may be defined in terms of (a) rate of
straining of the specimen, ( b) rate of stressing of the specimen,
2 [~~D 2 2T!/2! 2 3 arcsin ~W/~D 2 2T!!# (1)
(c) rate of separation of the two heads of the testing machine
where: during a test, (d) the elapsed time for completing part or all of
A = exact cross-sectional area, in.2, the test, or (e) free-running crosshead speed (rate of movement
W = width of the specimen in the reduced section, in., of the crosshead of the testing machine when not under load).
D = measured outside diameter of the tube, in., and 7.6.2 Specifying suitable numerical limits for speed and
T = measured wall thickness of the specimen, in. selection of the method are the responsibilities of the product
arcsin values to be in radians committees. Suitable limits for speed of testing should be
If D/W > 6, the exact equation or the following equation may specified for materials for which the differences resulting from
be used: the use of different speeds are of such magnitude that the test
A5W3T (2) results are unsatisfactory for determining the acceptability of
the material. In such instances, depending upon the material

10
 E 8 – 04

FIG. 16 Test Coupons for Castings (see Table 1 for Details of Design)

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. 16 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 A 356/A 356M.
NOTE 2—Bend Bar: If a bend bar is required, an alternate design (as shown by dotted lines in Fig. 16) is indicated.
Log Design (5 in.) Riser Design
1. L (length) A 5-in. minimum length will be used. This length 1. L (length) The length of the riser at the base will be the same as the top
may be increased at the option of the foundry to length of the leg. The length of the riser at the top therefore
accommodate additional test bars (see Note 1). depends on the amount of taper added to the riser.
2. End taper Use of and size of end taper is at the option of the 2. Width The width of the riser at the base of a multiple-leg coupon
foundry. shall be n (21⁄4 in.) − 5⁄8 in. where n equals the number of
legs 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 11⁄4 in.
4. Width (at top) 11⁄4 in. (see Note 1)
5. Radius (at bottom) 1⁄2 in. max

6. Spacing between legs A 1⁄2-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).
8. Number of legs The number of legs attached to the coupon is at 3. T (riser taper) Use of and size is at the option of the foundry. The minimum
the option of the foundry providing they are equis- Height height of the riser shall be 2 in. The maximum height is at the
paced according to Item 6. option of the foundry for the following reasons: (a) many risers
are cast open, (b) different compositions may require variation
in risering for soundness, or (c) different pouring temperatures
may require variation in risering for soundness.
9. Rs Radius from 0 to approximately 1⁄16 in.

and the use for which the test results are intended, one or more 7.6.2.1 Rate of Straining—The allowable limits for rate of
of the methods described in the following paragraphs is straining shall be specified in inches per inch per minute. Some
recommended for specifying speed of testing. testing machines are equipped with pacing or indicating
NOTE 19—Speed of testing can affect test values because of the rate devices for the measurement and control of rate of straining,
sensitivity of materials and the temperature-time effects. but in the absence of such a device the average rate of straining

11
 E 8 – 04

Dimensions
in.
D—Diameter ⁄
58

R—Radius of fillet 5⁄16

A—Length of reduced section 21⁄2

L—Over-all length 71⁄2
B—Length of end section 21⁄2
C—Diameter of end section 3⁄4

E—Length of fillet 3⁄16

FIG. 17 Standard Tension Test Specimen for Malleable Iron

Dimensions
in
G—Gage length 2.000 6 0.005
D—Diameter (see Note) 0.250 6 0.005
R—Radius of fillet, min 3
A—Length of reduced section, min 21⁄4
L—Over-all length, min 9
B—Distance between grips, min 41⁄2
C—Diameter of end section, approximate 3⁄8

NOTE 1—The reduced section may hve a gradual taper from the end toward the center, with the ends not more than 0.005 in. larger in diameter than
the center.
FIG. 18 Standard Tension Test Specimens for Die Castings

can be determined with a timing device by observing the time devices for the measurement and control of the rate of
required to effect a known increment of strain. separation of the heads of the machine during a test, but in the
7.6.2.2 Rate of Stressing—The allowable limits for rate of absence of such a device the average rate of separation of the
stressing shall be specified in pounds per square inch per heads can be experimentally determined by using suitable
minute. Many testing machines are equipped with pacing or length-measuring and timing devices.
indicating devices for the measurement and control of the rate 7.6.2.4 Elapsed Time—The allowable limits for the elapsed
of stressing, but in the absence of such a device the average time from the beginning of force application (or from some
rate of stressing can be determined with a timing device by specified stress) to the instant of fracture, to the maximum
observing the time required to apply a known increment of force, or to some other stated stress, shall be specified in
stress. minutes or seconds. The elapsed time can be determined with
7.6.2.3 Rate of Separation of Heads During Tests—The a timing device.
allowable limits for rate of separation of the heads of the 7.6.2.5 Free-Running Crosshead Speed— The allowable
testing machine, during a test, shall be specified in inches per limits for the rate of movement of the crosshead of the testing
inch of length of reduced section (or distance between grips for machine, with no force applied by the testing machine, shall be
specimens not having reduced sections) per minute. The limits specified in inches per inch of length of reduced section (or
for the rate of separation may be further qualified by specifying distance between grips for specimens not having reduced
different limits for various types and sizes of specimens. Many sections) per minute. The limits for the crosshead speed may be
testing machines are equipped with pacing or indicating further qualified by specifying different limits for various types

12
 E 8 – 04

Pressing Area =1.00 in.2

Dimensions Specified, are Those of the Die
Pressing Area = 1.00 in.2 Approximate Pressing Area of Unmachined Compact = 1.166 in.2
Machining Recommendations
1. Rough machine reduced section to 1⁄4 -in. diameter
Dimensions
2. Finish turn 0.187/0.191-in. diameter with radii and taper
in. 3. Polish with 00 emery cloth
4. Lap with crocus cloth
G—Gage length 1.000 6 0.003
D—Width at center 0.225 6 0.001 Dimensions
W—Width at end of reduced section 0.235 6 0.001
in.
T—Compact to this thickness 0.140 to 0.250
R—Radius of fillet 1 G—Gage length 1.000 6 0.003
A—Half-length of reduced section 5⁄8 D—Diameter at center of reduced section 0.1876 0.001
B—Grip length 3.187 6 0.001 H—Diameter at ends of gage length 0.191 6 0.001
L—Overall length 3.529 6 0.001 R—Radius of fillet 0.250 6 0.005
C—Width of grip section 0.343 6 0.001 A—Length of reduced section 1.875 6 0.003
F—Half-width of grip section 0.171 6 0.001 L—Overall length (die cavity length) 3, nominal
E—End radius 0.171 6 0.001 B—Length of end section 0.310 6 0.005
C—Compact to this end thickness 0.395 6 0.005
W—Die cavity width 0.395 6 0.003
NOTE 1—Note—Dimensions Specified, except G and T, are those of the
E—Length of shoulder 0.250 6 0.005
die. F—Diameter of shoulder 0.310 6 0.001
FIG. 19 Standard Flat Unmachined Tension Test Specimens for J—End fillet radius 0.050 6 0.005
Powder Metallurgy (P/M) Products
NOTE 1—The gage length and fillets of the specimen shall be as shown.
The ends as shown are designed to provide a practical minimum pressing
and sizes of specimens. The average crosshead speed can be area. Other end designs are acceptable, and in some cases are required for
experimentally determined by using suitable length-measuring high-strength sintered materials.
and timing devices. NOTE 2—It is recommended that the test specimen be gripped with a
split collet and supported under the shoulders. The radius of the collet
NOTE 20—For machines not having crossheads or having stationary support circular edge is to be not less than the end fillet radius of the test
crossheads, the phrase “free-running crosshead speed” may be interpreted specimen.
to mean the free-running rate of grip separation. NOTE 3—Diameters D and H are to be concentric within 0.001 in. total
7.6.3 Speed of Testing When Determining Yield indicator runout (T.I.R.), and free of scratches and tool marks.
Properties—Unless otherwise specified, any convenient speed FIG. 20 Standard Round Machined Tension Test Specimen for
Powder Metallurgy (P/M) Products
of testing may be used up to one half the specified yield
strength or up to one quarter the specified tensile strength,
whichever is smaller. The speed above this point shall be be increased in order to maintain a stressing rate when the specimen
within the limits specified. If different speed limitations are begins to yield. In practice, it is simpler to use either a strain rate, a rate
required for use in determining yield strength, yield point of separation of the heads, or a free-running crosshead speed which
elongation, tensile strength, elongation, and reduction of area, approximates the desired stressing rate. As an example, use a strain rate
they should be stated in the product specifications. In the that is less than 100 000 psi divided by the nominal Young’s Modulus of
absence of any specified limitations on speed of testing, the the material being tested. As another example, find a rate of separation of
the heads through experimentation which would approximate the desired
following general rules shall apply: stressing rate prior to the onset of yielding, and maintain that rate of
NOTE 21—In the previous and following paragraphs, the yield proper- separation of the heads through the region that yield properties are
ties referred to include yield strength and yield point elongation. determined. While both of these methods will provide similar rates of
stressing and straining prior to the onset of yielding, the rates of stressing
7.6.3.1 The speed of testing shall be such that the forces and and straining may be different in the region where yield properties are
strains used in obtaining the test results are accurately indi- determined. This difference is due to the change in the rate of elastic
cated. deformation of the testing machine, before and after the onset of yielding.
7.6.3.2 When performing a test to determine yield proper- In addition, the use of any of the methods other than rate of straining may
ties, the rate of stress application shall be between 10 000 and result in different stressing and straining rates when using different testing
machines, due to differences in the stiffness of the testing machines used.
100 000 psi/min.
7.6.4 Speed of Testing When Determining Tensile
NOTE 22—When a specimen being tested begins to yield, the stressing
rate decreases and may even become negative in the case of a specimen
Strength—In the absence of any specified limitations on speed
with discontinuous yielding. To maintain a constant stressing rate would of testing, the following general rules shall apply for materials
require the testing machine to operate at extremely high speeds and, in with expected elongations greater than 5 %. When determining
many cases, this is not practical. The speed of the testing machine shall not only the tensile strength, or after the yield behavior has been

13
 E 8 – 04
recorded, the speed of the testing machine shall be set between Yield strength ~offset 5 0.2 %! 5 52 000 psi (3)
0.05 and 0.5 in./in. of the length of the reduced section (or
distance between the grips for specimens not having a reduced In using this method, a Class B2 or better extensometer (see
section) per minute. Alternatively, an extensometer and strain Practice E 83) shall be used.
rate indicator may be used to set the strain rate between 0.05
NOTE 27—There are two general types of extensometers, averaging and
and 0.5 in./in./min. non-averaging, the use of which is dependent on the product tested. For
NOTE 23—For materials with expected elongations less than or equal to most machined specimens, there are minimal differences. However, for
5 %, the speed of the testing machine may be maintained throughout the some forgings and tube sections, significant differences in measured yield
test at the speed used to determine yield properties. strength can occur. For these cases, it is recommended that the averaging
NOTE 24—Tensile strength and elongation are sensitive to test speed for type be used.
many materials (see Appendix X1) to the extent that variations within the NOTE 28—When there is a disagreement over yield properties, the
range of test speeds given above can significantly affect results. offset method for determining yield strength is recommended as the
referee method.
7.7 Determination of Yield Strength—Determine yield
strength by any of the methods described in 7.7.1 to 7.7.4. 7.7.2 Extension-Under-Load Method—Yield strength by the
Where extensometers are employed, use only those which are extension-under-load method may be determined by: ( 1) using
verified over a strain range in which the yield strength will be autographic or numerical devices to secure stress-strain data,
determined (see 5.4). and then analyzing this data (graphically or using automated
methods) to determine the stress value at the specified value of
NOTE 25—For example, a verified strain range of 0.2 % to 2.0 % is extension, or ( 2) using devices that indicate when the specified
appropriate for use in determining the yield strengths of many metals. extension occurs, so that the stress then occurring may be
NOTE 26—Determination of yield behavior on materials which cannot ascertained (Note 30). Any of these devices may be automatic.
support an appropriate extensometer (thin wire, for example) is problem-
atic and outside the scope of this standard.
This method is illustrated in Fig. 22. The stress at the specified
extension shall be reported as follows:
7.7.1 Offset Method—To determine the yield strength by the
yield strength ~EUL 5 0.5 %! 5 52 000 psi (4)
offset method, it is necessary to secure data (autographic or
numerical) from which a stress-strain diagram may be drawn.
Then on the stress-strain diagram (Fig. 21) lay off Om equal to Extensometers and other devices used in determination of
the specified value of the offset, draw mn parallel to OA, and the extension shall meet Class B2 requirements (see Practice
thus locate r, the intersection of mn with the stress-strain E 83) at the strain of interest, except where use of low-
diagram (Note 32). In reporting values of yield strength magnification Class C devices is helpful, such as in facilitating
obtained by this method, the specified value of offset used measurement of YPE, if observed. If Class C devices are used,
should be stated in parentheses after the term yield strength. this must be reported along with the results.
Thus: NOTE 29—The appropriate value of the total extension must be speci-
fied. For steels with nominal yield strengths of less than 80 000 psi, an
appropriate value is 0.005 in./in. (0.5 %) of the gage length. For higher
strength steels, a greater extension or the offset method should be used.
NOTE 30—When no other means of measuring elongation are available,
a pair of dividers or similar device can be used to determine a point of
detectable elongation between two gage marks on the specimen. The gage

FIG. 21 Stress-Strain Diagram for Determination of Yield Strength FIG. 22 Stress-Strain Diagram for Determination of Yield Strength
by the Offset Method by the Extension-Under-Load Method

14
 E 8 – 04
length shall be 2 in. The stress corresponding to the load at the instant of
detectable elongation may be recorded as the approximate extension-
under-load yield strength.
7.7.3 Autographic Diagram Method (for materials exhibit-
ing discontinuous yielding)—Obtain stress-strain (or
forceelongation) data or construct a stress-strain (or load-
elongation) diagram using an autographic device. Determine
the upper or lower yield strength as follows:
7.7.3.1 Record the stress corresponding to the maximum
force at the onset of discontinuous yielding as the upper yield
strength. This is illustrated in Fig. 23 and Fig. 24.
NOTE 31—If multiple peaks are observed at the onset of discontinuous
yielding, the first is considered the upper yield strength. (See Fig. 24.)
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. 24.
NOTE 32—Yield properties of materials exhibiting yield point elonga-
tion are often less repeatable and less reproducible than those of similar FIG. 24 Stress-Strain Diagram Showing Yield Point Elongation
materials having no YPE. Offset and EUL yield strengths may be and Upper and Lower Yield Strengths
significantly affected by force fluctuations occurring in the region where
the offset or extension intersects the stress-strain curve. Determination of
upper or lower yield strengths (or both) may therefore be preferable for specimen at a uniform deformation rate. When the force
such materials, although these properties are dependent on variables such hesitates, record the corresponding stress as the upper yield
as test machine stiffness and alignment. Speed of testing may also have a strength.
significant effect, regardless of the method employed.
NOTE 34—The Halt-of-the-Force Method was formerly known as the
NOTE 33—Where low-magnification autographic recordings are needed
Halt-of-the-Pointer Method, the Drop-of-the-Beam Method, and the
to facilitate measurement of yield point elongation for materials which
Halt-of-the-Load Method.
may exhibit discontinuous yielding, Class C extensometers may be
employed. When this is done but the material exhibits no discontinuous 7.8 Yield Point Elongation—Calculate the yield point elon-
yielding, the extension-under-load yield strength may be determined gation from the stress-strain diagram or data by determining
instead, using the autographic recording (see Extension-Under-Load the difference in strain between the upper yield strength (first
Method).
zero slope) and the onset of uniform strain hardening (see
7.7.4 Halt-of-the-Force Method (for materials exhibiting definition of YPE and Fig. 24).
discontinuous yielding)—Apply an increasing force to the NOTE 35—The stress-strain curve of a material exhibiting only a hint of
the behavior causing YPE may have an inflection at the onset of yielding
with no point where the slope reaches zero (Fig. 25). Such a material has
no YPE, but may be characterized as exhibiting an inflection. Materials
exhibiting inflections, like those with measurable YPE, may in certain
applications acquire an unacceptable surface appearance during forming.
7.9 Uniform Elongation (if required):
7.9.1 Uniform elongation shall include both plastic and
elastic elongation.

FIG. 23 Stress-Strain Diagram Showing Upper Yield Strength

Corresponding with Top of Knee FIG. 25 Stress-Strain Diagram With an Inflection, But No YPE

15
 E 8 – 04
7.9.2 Uniform elongation shall be determined using auto-
graphic methods with extensometers conforming to Practice
E 83. Use a class B2 or better extensometer for materials
having a uniform elongation less than 5 %. Use a class C or
better extensometer for materials having a uniform elongation
greater than or equal to 5 % but less than 50 %. Use a class D
or better extensometer for materials having a uniform elonga-
tion of 50 % or greater.
7.9.3 Determine the uniform elongation as the elongation at
the point of maximum force from the force elongation data
collected during a test.
7.9.3.1 Some materials exhibit a yield point followed by
considerable elongation where the yield point is the maximum
force achieved during the test. In this case, uniform elongation
is not determined at the yield point, but instead at the highest
force occurring just prior to necking (see Fig. 26).
7.9.3.2 Stress-strain curves for some materials exhibit a FIG. 27 Load-Strain Diagram for Determination of Uniform
lengthy, plateau-like region in the vicinity of the maximum Elongation of Steel Sheet Materials Exhibiting a Plateau at
force. For such materials, determine the uniform elongation at Maximum Load
the center of the plateau as indicated in Fig. 27 (see also Note
36 below).
maximum force.
NOTE 36—When uniform elongation is being determined digitally, - Digitally define the 9plateau9 as consisting of all consecutive data points
noise in the stress-strain data generally causes many small, local peaks and wherein the force value is within 0.5% of the magnitude of the peak force
valleys to be recorded in the plateau region. To accommodate this, the value.
following procedure is recommended: - Determine the uniform elongation as the strain at the mid-point of the
- Determine the maximum force recorded (after discontinuous yielding). “plateau.”
- Evaluate the sequence of force values recorded before and after the 7.9.4 Discussion—The 0.5% value of Note 36 has been
selected arbitrarily. In actual practice, the value should be
selected so as to be the minimum figure that is large enough to
effectively define the force plateau. This may require that the
percentage be about 5 times the amplitude of the force
fluctuations occurring due to noise. Values ranging from 0.1%
to 1.0 % may be found to work acceptably.
7.10 Tensile Strength—Calculate the tensile strength by
dividing the maximum force carried by the specimen during
the tension test by the original cross-sectional area of the
specimen.
NOTE 37—If the upper yield strength is the maximum stress recorded,
and if the stress-strain curve resembles that of Fig. 26, it is recommended
that the maximum stress after discontinuous yielding be reported as the
tensile strength. Where this may occur, determination of the tensile
strength should be in accordance with the agreement between the parties
involved.
7.11 Elongation:
7.11.1 In reporting values of elongation, give both the
original gage length and the percentage increase. If any device
other than an extensometer is placed in contact with the
specimen’s reduced section during the test, this also shall be
noted.
Example: elongation 5 30 % increase ~22in. gage length! (5)

NOTE 38—Elongation results are very sensitive to variables such as: (

a) speed of testing, (b) specimen geometry (gage length, diameter, width,
and thickness), (c) heat dissipation (through grips, extensometers, or other
devices in contact with the reduced section), (d) surface finish in reduced
section (especially burrs or notches), (e) alignment, and (f) fillets and
tapers. Parties involved in comparison or conformance testing should
FIG. 26 Stress-Strain Diagram in Which the Upper Yield Strength standardize the above items, and it is recommended that use of ancillary
is the Maximum Stress Recorded devices (such as extensometer supports) which may remove heat from

16
 E 8 – 04
specimens be avoided. See Appendix X1. for additional information on the 7.11.5.2 Percent elongation at fracture may be calculated
effects of these variables. directly from elongation at fracture data and be reported
7.11.2 When the specified elongation is greater than 3 %, fit instead of percent elongation as calculated in paragraphs 7.11.2
ends of the fractured specimen together carefully and measure to 7.11.3. However, these two parameters are not interchange-
the distance between the gage marks to the nearest 0.01 in. for able. Use of the elongation at fracture method generally
gage lengths of 2 in. and under, and to at least the nearest 0.5 % provides more repeatable results.
of the gage length for gage lengths over 2 in. A percentage NOTE 40—When disagreements arise over the percent elongation re-
scale reading to 0.5 % of the gage length may be used. sults, agreement must be reached on which method to use to obtain the
7.11.3 When the specified elongation is 3 % or less, deter- results.
mine the elongation of the specimen using the following 7.12 Reduction of Area:
procedure, except that the procedure given in 7.11.2 may be 7.12.1 The reduced area used to calculate reduction of area
used instead when the measured elongation is greater than 3 %. (see 7.12.2 and 7.12.3) shall be the minimum cross section at
7.11.3.1 Prior to testing, measure the original gage length of the location of fracture.
the specimen to the nearest 0.002 in. 7.12.2 Specimens with Originally Circular Cross Sections—
7.11.3.2 Remove partly torn fragments that will interfere Fit the ends of the fractured specimen together and measure the
with fitting together the ends of the fractured specimen or with reduced diameter to the same accuracy as the original mea-
making the final measurement. surement.
7.11.3.3 Fit the fractured ends together with matched sur- NOTE 41—Because of anisotropy, circular cross sections often do not
faces and apply a force along the axis of the specimen sufficient remain circular during straining in tension. The shape is usually elliptical,
to close the fractured ends together. If desired, this force may thus, the area may be calculated byp· d1·d2/4, where d 1 and d2 are the
then be removed carefully, provided the specimen remains major and minor diameters, respectively.
intact. 7.12.3 Specimens with Original Rectangular Cross
NOTE 39—The use of a force of approximately 2000 psi has been found Sections—Fit the ends of the fractured specimen together and
to give satisfactory results on test specimens of aluminum alloy. measure the thickness and width at the minimum cross section
to the same accuracy as the original measurements.
7.11.3.4 Measure the final gage length to the nearest 0.002
in. and report the elongation to the nearest 0.2 %. NOTE 42—Because of the constraint to deformation that occurs at the
corners of rectangular specimens, the dimensions at the center of the
7.11.4 Elongation measured per paragraph 7.11.2 or 7.11.3 original flat surfaces are less than those at the corners. The shapes of these
may be affected by location of the fracture, relative to the surfaces are often assumed to be parabolic. When this assumption is made,
marked gage length. If any part of the fracture occurs outside an effective thickness, te, may be calculated as follows: (t1 + 4 t2 + t3)/6,
the gage marks or is located less than 25 % of the elongated where t1 and t 3 are the thicknesses at the corners, and t 2 is the thickness
gage length from either gage mark, the elongation value at mid-width. An effective width may be similarly calculated.
obtained using that pair of gage marks may be abnormally low 7.12.4 Calculate the reduced area based upon the dimen-
and non-representative of the material. If such an elongation sions determined in 7.12.2 or 7.12.3. The difference between
measure is obtained in acceptance testing involving only a the area thus found and the area of the original cross section
minimum requirement and meets the requirement, no further expressed as a percentage of the original area is the reduction
testing need be done. Otherwise, discard the test and retest the of area.
material. 7.12.5 If any part of the fracture takes place outside the
7.11.5 Elongation at fracture is defined as the elongation middle half of the reduced section or in a punched or scribed
measured just prior to the sudden decrease in force associated gage mark within the reduced section, the reduction of area
with fracture. For many ductile materials not exhibiting a value obtained may not be representative of the material. In
sudden decrease in force, the elongation at fracture can be acceptance testing, if the reduction of area so calculated meets
taken as the strain measured just prior to when the force falls the minimum requirements specified, no further testing is
below 10 % of the maximum force encountered during the test. required, but if the reduction of area is less than the minimum
7.11.5.1 Elongation at fracture shall include elastic and requirements, discard the test results and retest.
plastic elongation and may be determined with autographic or 7.12.6 Results of measurements of reduction of area shall be
automated methods using extensometers verified over the rounded using the procedures of Practice E 29 and any specific
strain range of interest (see 5.4). Use a class B2 or better procedures in the product specifications. In the absence of a
extensometer for materials having less than 5 % elongation, a specified procedure, it is recommended that reduction of area
class C or better extensometer for materials having elongation test values in the range from 0 to 10 % be rounded to the
greater than or equal to 5 % but less than 50 %, and a class D nearest 0.5 % and test values of 10 % and greater to the nearest
or better extensometer for materials having 50 % or greater 1 %.
elongation. In all cases, the extensometer gage length shall be 7.13 Rounding Reported Test Data for Yield Strength and
the nominal gage length required for the specimen being tested. Tensile Strength—Test data should be rounded using the
Due to the lack of precision in fitting fractured ends together, procedures of Practice E 29 and the specific procedures in the
the elongation after fracture using the manual methods of the product specifications. In the absence of a specified procedure
preceding paragraphs may differ from the elongation at fracture for rounding the test data, one of the procedures described in
determined with extensometers. the following paragraphs is recommended.

17
 E 8 – 04
7.13.1 For test values up to 50 000 psi, round to the nearest 8.3.2 Equation used to calculate cross-sectional area of
100 psi; for test values of 50 000 psi and up to 100 000 psi, rectangular specimens taken from large-diameter tubular prod-
round to the nearest 500 psi; for test values of 100 000 psi and ucts.
greater, round to the nearest 1000 psi. 8.3.3 Speed and method used to determine speed of testing
(see 7.6).
NOTE 43—For steel products, see Test Methods and Definitions A 370.
8.3.4 Method used for rounding of test results (see 7.13).
7.13.2 For all test values, round to the nearest 100 psi. 8.3.5 Reasons for replacement specimens (see 7.14).
NOTE 44—For aluminum- and magnesium-alloy products, see Methods
B 557. 9. Precision and Bias
7.13.3 For all test values, round to the nearest 500 psi. 9.1 Precision—An interlaboratory test program3 gave the
7.14 Replacement of Specimens—A test specimen may be following values for coefficients of variation for the most
discarded and a replacement specimen selected from the same commonly measured tensile properties:
Coefficient of Variation, %
lot of material in the following cases:
7.14.1 The original specimen had a poorly machined sur- Yield Yield
face, Strength Strength Elongation Reduc-
Tensile Offset = Offset = Gage Length= tion of
7.14.2 The original specimen had the wrong dimensions, Strength 0.02 % 0.2 % 4 Diameter Area
7.14.3 The specimen’s properties were changed because of CV %r 0.9 2.7 1.4 2.8 2.8
poor machining practice, CV %R 1.3 4.5 2.3 5.4 4.6
CV %r = repeatability coefficient of variation in percent within a laboratory
7.14.4 The test procedure was incorrect, CV %R = repeatability coefficient of variation in percent between laborato-
7.14.5 The fracture was outside the gage length, ries
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 gage 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 45—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 E 8 for mea-
specification should be reported in accordance with 8.2 or both suring tensile properties have no bias because these properties
8.2 and 8.3. 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:
10.1 accuracy; bending stress; discontinuous yielding; drop-
8.2.1 Material and sample identification.
of-the-beam; eccentric force application; elastic extension;
8.2.2 Specimen type (see Section 6).
elongation; extension-under-load; extensometer; force; free-
8.2.3 Yield strength and the method used to determine yield
running crosshead speed; gage length; halt-of-the force; per-
strength (see 7.7).
cent elongation; plastic extension; preload; rate of stressing;
8.2.4 Yield point elongation (see 7.8).
rate of straining; reduced section; reduction of area; sensitivity;
8.2.5 Tensile strength (see 7.10).
strain; stress; taring; tensile strength; tension testing; yield
8.2.6 Elongation (report original gage length, percentage
point elongation; yield strength
increase, and method used to determine elongation) (see 7.11).
8.2.7 Reduction of area, if required (see 7.12).
8.3 Test information to be available on request shall include: 3
Supporting data can be found in Appendix I and additional data are available
8.3.1 Specimen test section dimension(s). from ASTM Headquarters. Request RR: E28-1004.

18
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APPENDIXES

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. FACTORS AFFECTING TENSION TEST RESULTS

X1.1 The precision and bias of tension test strength and material and test conditions, increasing the size of the propor-
ductility measurements depend on strict adherence to the stated tional specimen of Fig. 8 may be found to increase or decrease
test procedure and are influenced by instrumental and material elongation and reduction in area values somewhat.
factors, specimen preparation, and measurement/testing errors. X1.4.5 Use of a taper in the gage length, up to the allowed
1 % limit, can result in lower elongation values. Reductions of
X1.2 The consistency of agreement for repeated tests of the as much as 15 % have been reported for a 1 % taper.
same material is dependent on the homogeneity of the material, X1.4.6 Changes in the strain rate can affect the yield
and the repeatability of specimen preparation, test conditions, strength, tensile strength, and elongation values, especially for
and measurements of the tension test parameters. materials which are highly strain rate sensitive. In general, the
yield strength and tensile strength will increase with increasing
X1.3 Instrumental factors that can affect test results in- strain rate, although the effect on tensile strength is generally
clude: the stiffness, damping capacity, natural frequency, and less pronounced. Elongation values generally decrease as the
mass of moving parts of the tensile test machine; accuracy of strain rate increases.
force indication and use of forces within the verified range of X1.4.7 Brittle materials require careful specimen prepara-
the machine; rate of force application, alignment of the test tion, high quality surface finishes, large fillets at the ends of the
specimen with the applied force, parallelness of the grips, grip gage length, oversize threaded grip sections, and cannot
pressure, nature of the force control used, appropriateness and tolerate punch or scribe marks as gage length indicators.
calibration of extensometers, heat dissipation (by grips, exten- X1.4.8 Flattening of tubular products to permit testing does
someters, or ancillary devices), and so forth. alter the material properties, generally nonuniformly, in the
flattened region which may affect test results.
X1.4 Material factors that can affect test results include:
representativeness and homogeneity of the test material, sam- X1.5 Measurement errors that can affect test results in-
pling scheme, and specimen preparation (surface finish, dimen- clude: verification of the test force, extensometers, microme-
sional accuracy, fillets at the ends of the gage length, taper in ters, dividers, and other measurement devices, alignment and
the gage length, bent specimens, thread quality, and so forth). zeroing of chart recording devices, and so forth.
X1.4.1 Some materials are very sensitive to the quality of X1.5.1 Measurement of the dimensions of as-cast, as-rolled,
the surface finish of the test specimen (see Note 8) and must be as-forged, and other test specimens with non-machined sur-
ground to a fine finish, or polished to obtain correct results. faces may be imprecise due to the irregularity of the surface
X1.4.2 Test results for specimens with as-cast, as-rolled, flatness.
as-forged, or other non-machined surface conditions can be X1.5.2 Materials with anisotropic flow characteristics may
affected by the nature of the surface (see Note 14). exhibit non-circular cross sections after fracture and measure-
X1.4.3 Test specimens taken from appendages to the part or ment precision may be affected, as a result (see Note 37).
component, such as prolongs or risers, or from separately X1.5.3 The corners of rectangular test specimens are subject
produced castings (for example, keel blocks) may produce test to constraint during deformation and the originally flat surfaces
results that are not representative of the part or component. may be parabolic in shape after testing which will affect the
X1.4.4 Test specimen dimensions can influence test results. precision of final cross-sectional area measurements (see Note
For cylindrical or rectangular specimens, changing the test 42).
specimen size generally has a negligible effect on the yield and X1.5.4 If any portion of the fracture occurs outside of the
tensile strength but may influence the upper yield strength, if middle of the gage length, or in a punch or scribe mark within
one is present, and elongation and reduction of area values. the gage length, the elongation and reduction of area values
Comparison of elongation values determined using different may not be representative of the material. Wire specimens that
specimens requires that the following ratio be controlled: break at or within the grips may not produce test results
Lo/~Ao! 1/2 (X1.1) representative of the material.
X1.5.5 Use of specimens with shouldered ends (“button-
where: head” tensiles) will produce lower 0.02 % offset yield strength
Lo = original gage length of specimen, and values than threaded specimens.
Ao = original cross-sectional area of specimen.
X1.4.4.1 Specimens with smaller L o/(Ao) 1/2 ratios generally X1.6 Because standard reference materials with certified
give greater elongation and reduction in area values. This is the tensile property values are not available, it is not possible to
case for example, when the width or thickness of a rectangular rigorously define the bias of tension tests. However, by the use
tensile test specimen is increased. of carefully designed and controlled interlaboratory studies, a
X1.4.4.2 Holding the Lo/(Ao)1/2 ratio constant minimizes, reasonable definition of the precision of tension test results can
but does not necessarily eliminate, differences. Depending on be obtained.

19
 E 8 – 04
TABLE X1.1 Precision Statistics—Tensile Strength, 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),
sr/X is the coefficient of variation in %,
sR is the reproducibility standard deviation (between-laboratory precision),
sR/X is the coefficient of variation, %,
r is the 95 % repeatability limits,
R is the 95 % reproducibility limits.
Material X sr sr/X,% sR sR/X, % r R
EC-H19 25.66 0.63 2.45 0.63 2.45 1.76 1.76
2024-T351 71.26 0.88 1.24 0.96 1.34 2.47 2.68
ASTM A105 86.57 0.60 0.69 1.27 1.47 1.68 3.55
AISI 316 100.75 0.39 0.39 1.22 1.21 1.09 3.39
Inconel 600 99.48 0.42 0.43 0.72 0.72 1.19 2.02
SAE 51410 181.73 0.46 0.25 1.14 0.63 1.29 3.20
Averages: 0.91 1.30

TABLE X1.2 Precision Statistics—0.02 % Yield Strength, ksi

Material X sr sr/X,% sR sR/X, % r R
EC-H19 16.16 0.65 4.00 1.19 7.37 1.81 3.33
2024-T351 51.38 0.84 1.64 0.89 1.73 2.36 2.49
ASTM A105 59.66 1.20 2.02 1.90 3.18 3.37 5.31
AISI 316 48.75 2.42 4.97 4.63 9.49 6.68 12.91
Inconel 600 38.74 0.46 1.18 0.76 1.96 1.28 2.13
SAE 51410 104.90 2.40 2.29 3.17 3.02 6.73 8.88
Averages: 2.68 4.46

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

Material X sr sr/X,% sR sR/X, % r R
EC-H19 22.98 0.47 2.06 0.48 2.07 1.33 1.33
2024-T351 52.64 0.74 1.41 0.79 1.49 2.08 2.20
ASTM A105 58.36 0.83 1.42 1.44 2.47 2.31 4.03
AISI 316 69.78 0.95 1.36 2.83 4.06 2.63 7.93
Inconel 600 38.91 0.36 0.93 0.85 2.17 1.01 2.37
SAE 51410 140.33 1.29 0.92 2.30 1.64 3.60 6.45
Averages: 1.35 2.32

TABLE X1.4 Precision Statistics—% Elongation in 4D

NOTE 1—Length of reduced 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

X1.6.1 An interlaboratory test program3 was conducted in standard deviations, and the seventh and eighth columns list
which six specimens each, of six different materials were the 95 % repeatability and reproducibility limits.
prepared and tested by each of six different laboratories. Tables X1.6.2 The averages (below columns four and six in each
X1.1-X1.5 present the precision statistics, as defined in Prac- table) of the coefficients of variation permit a relative compari-
tice E 691, for: tensile strength, 0.02 % yield strength, 0.2 % son of the repeatability (within-laboratory precision) and
yield strength, % elongation in 4D, and % reduction in area. In reproducibility (between-laboratory precision) of the tension
each table, the first column lists the six materials tested, the test parameters. This shows that the ductility measurements
second column lists the average of the average results obtained exhibit less repeatability and reproducibility than the strength
by the laboratories, the third and fifth columns list the measurements. The overall ranking from the least to the most
repeatability and reproducibility standard deviations, the fourth repeatable and reproducible is: % elongation in 4D, % reduc-
and sixth columns list the coefficients of variation for these tion in area, 0.02 % offset yield strength, 0.2 % offset yield

20
 E 8 – 04
TABLE X1.5 Precision Statistics—% Reduction in Area
Material X sr sr/X,% sR sR/X, % r R
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

strength, and tensile strength. Note that the rankings are in the these specimens. However, examination of the test results
same order for the repeatability and reproducibility average showed that one laboratory consistently exhibited higher than
coefficients of variation and that the reproducibility (between- average strength values and lower than average ductility values
laboratory precision) is poorer than the repeatability (within- for most of the specimens. One other laboratory had consis-
laboratory precision), as would be expected. tently lower than average tensile strength results for all
X1.6.3 No comments about bias can be made for the specimens.
interlaboratory study due to the lack of certified test results for

X2. MEASUREMENT OF SPECIMEN DIMENSIONS

X2.1 Measurement of specimen dimensions is critical in reading to 0.00005 in.) indicates that the total variation due to
tension testing, and it becomes more critical with decreasing repeatability and reproducibility is around 0.0003 in. This is
specimen size, as a given absolute error becomes a larger less than or equal to 1 % only if all dimensions to be measured
relative (percent) error. Measuring devices and procedures are greater than or equal to 0.03 in. The relative error in using
should be selected carefully, so as to minimize measurement this device to measure thickness of a 0.01 in. flat tensile
error and provide good repeatability and reproducibility. specimen would be 3 %—which is considerably more than that
allowed for load or strain measurement.
X2.2 Relative measurement error should be kept at or
below 1 %, where possible. Ideally, this 1 % error should X2.6 Dimensional measurement errors can be identified as
include not only the resolution of the measuring device but also the cause of many out-of-control signals, as indicated by
the variability commonly referred to as repeatability and statistical process control (SPC) charts used to monitor tension
reproducibility. (Repeatability is the ability of any operator to testing procedures. This has been the experience of a produc-
obtain similar measurements in repeated trials. Reproducibility tion laboratory employing SPC methodology and the best
is the ability of multiple operators to obtain similar measure- hand-held micrometers available (from a GR and R standpoint)
ments.) in testing of 0.018 in. to 0.25 in. flat rolled steel products.
X2.3 Formal evaluation of gage repeatability and reproduc- X2.7 Factors which affect GR and R, sometimes dramati-
ibility (GR and R) by way of a GR and R study is highly cally, and which should be considered in the selection and
recommended. A GR and R study involves having multiple evaluation of hardware and procedures include:
operators each take two or three measurements of a number of
parts—in this case, test specimens. Analysis, usually done by X2.7.1 Resolution,
computer, involves comparing the observed measurement X2.7.2 Verification,
variations to a tolerance the procedure is to determine con- X2.7.3 Zeroing,
formance to. High GR and R percentages (more than 20 %) X2.7.4 Type of anvil (flat, rounded, or pointed),
indicate much variability relative to the tolerance, whereas low X2.7.5 Cleanliness of part and anvil surfaces,
percentages (10 % or lower) indicate the opposite. The analysis X2.7.6 User-friendliness of measuring device,
also estimates, independently, the repeatability and reproduc- X2.7.7 Stability/temperature variations,
ibility. X2.7.8 Coating removal,
X2.7.9 Operator techique, and
X2.4 GR and R studies in which nontechnical personnel X2.7.10 Ratchets or other features used to regulate the
used different brands and models of hand-held micrometers clamping force.
have given results varying from about 10 % (excellent) to
nearly 100 % (essentially useless), relative to a dimensional X2.8 Flat anvils are generally preferred for measuring the
tolerance of 0.003 in. The user is therefore advised to be very dimensions of round or flat specimens which have relatively
careful in selecting devices, setting up measurement proce- smooth surfaces. One exception is that rounded or pointed
dures, and training personnel. anvils must be used in measuring the thickness of curved
specimens taken from large-diameter tubing (see Fig. 13), to
X2.5 With a 0.003 in. tolerance, a 10 % GR and R result prevent overstating the thickness. (Another concern for these
(exceptionally good, even for digital hand-held micrometers curved specimens is the error that can be introduced through

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use of the equation A = W 3T; see 7.2.3.) above affect dimensional measurement procedures, consider
the case of measuring the thickness of 0.015 in. painted, flat
X2.9 Heavy coatings should generally be removed from at rolled steel specimens. The paint should be removed prior to
least one grip end of flat specimens taken from coated products measurement, if possible. The measurement device used
to permit accurate measurement of base metal thickness, should have flat anvils, must read to 0.0001 in. or better, and
assuming (a) the base metal properties are what are desired, (b)
must have excellent repeatability and reproducibility. Since GR
the coating does not contribute significantly to the strength of
and R is a significant concern, it will be best to use a device
the product, and (c) coating removal can be easily accom-
which has a feature for regulating the clamping force used, and
plished (some coatings may be easily removed by chemical
devices without digital displays should be avoided to prevent
stripping). Otherwise, it may be advisable to leave the coating
reading errors. Before use of the device, and periodically
intact and determine the base metal thickness by an alternate
method. Where this issue may arise, all parties involved in during use, the anvils should be cleaned, and the device should
comparison or conformance testing should agree as to whether be verified or zeroed (if an electronic display is used) or both.
or not coatings are to be removed before measurement. Finally, personnel should be trained and audited periodically to
ensure that the measuring device is being used correctly and
X2.10 As an example of how the considerations identified consistently by all.

X3. SUGGESTED ACCREDITATION CRITERIA FOR LABORATORIES PERFORMING TENSILE TESTS

X3.1 Scope eter not meeting the Class B2 requirements of Practice E 83

X3.1.1 The following are specific features that an assessor may not be used in determination of offset yield strengths.
may check to assess a laboratory’s technical competence, if the X3.3.4 Before computerized or automated test equipment is
laboratory is performing tests in accordance with Test Methods put into routine service, or following a software revision, it is
E 8 and/or E 8M. recommended that measures be taken to verify proper opera-
tion and result interpretation. Guide E 1856 addresses this
X3.2 Preparation concern.
X3.2.1 The laboratory should follow documented proce- X3.3.5 Micrometers and other devices used in measurement
dures to ensure that machining or other preparation generates of specimen dimensions should be selected, maintained and
specimens conforming to applicable tolerances and require- used in such a manner as to comply with the appendixes of Test
ments of Test Methods E 8 or E 8M. Particularly important are Methods E 8 and E 8M on measurement. Traceability to
those requirements that pertain to the dimensions and finish of national standards should be established for these devices, and
reduced sections, as found in the text and in applicable figures. reasonable effort should be employed to prevent errors greater
X3.2.2 Where gage marks are used, the laboratory should than 1 % from being generated as a result of measurement
employ documented gage marking procedures to ensure that error, resolution, and rounding practice.
the marks and gage lengths comply with the tolerances and
X3.4 Procedures
guidelines of Test Methods E 8 or E 8M.
X3.2.2.1 The gage marking procedure used should not X3.4.1 The test machine shall be set up and zeroed in such
deleteriously affect the test results. a manner that zero force indication signifies a state of zero
force on the specimen, as indicated in the Zeroing of the Test
NOTE X3.1—Frequent occurrence of fracturing at the gage marks may Machine sections of Test Methods E 8 and E 8M.
indicate that gage marks have excessive depth or sharpness and may be
affecting test results. NOTE X3.2—Provisions should be made to ensure that zero readings are
properly maintained, from test to test. These may include, for example,
X3.3 Test Equipment zeroing after a predetermined number of tests or each time, under zero
X3.3.1 As specified in the Apparatus sections of Test force conditions, the indicator exceeds a predetermined value.
Methods E 8 and E 8M, the axis of the test specimen should X3.4.2 Upon request, the laboratory should be capable of
coincide with the center line of the heads of the testing demonstrating (perhaps through time, force, displacement or
machine, in order to minimize bending stresses which could extensometer measurements, or both) that the test speeds used
affect the results. conform to the requirements of Test Methods E 8 or E 8M, or
X3.3.2 Equipment verification requirements of Practices other standards which take precedence.
E 4 and E 83 shall be met. Documentation showing the X3.4.3 Upon request, the laboratory should be capable of
verification work to have been thorough and technically correct demonstrating that the offsets and extensions used in determin-
should be available. ing yield strengths conform to the requirements of Test
X3.3.2.1 Verification reports shall demonstrate that force Methods E 8 or E 8M and are constructed so as to indicate the
and extension readings have been taken at the prescribed forces corresponding to the desired offset strain or total strain.
intervals and that the prescribed runs have been completed. NOTE X3.3—Use caution when performing calculations with exten-
X3.3.3 Extensometers used shall meet all requirements of someter magnification, because the manufacturer may report strain mag-
Test Methods E 8 or E 8M as to the classification of device to nification, which relates the strain (not the elongation) to the x-axis
be used for the results determined. For example, an extensom- displacement on the stress strain diagram. A user or assessor interested in

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an extensometer’s magnification may use calibration equipment to deter- X3.5.1.5 Broken specimens,
mine the ratio between elongation and chart travel or may verify a X3.5.1.6 Excess material,
reported magnification by calculating the Young’s modulus from tests of X3.5.1.7 Test reports, and
specimens of a known nominal modulus.
X3.5.1.8 Verification reports and certifications.
X3.4.4 Measurement of elongation shall conform to re-
quirements of Test Methods E 8 or E 8M. X3.6 Environment
X3.6.1 All test equipment should be located and connected
NOTE X3.4—Test Methods E 8 and E 8M permit the measurement and
reporting of elongation at fracture in place of elongation, as is often done
to power sources in such a manner as to minimize the effects
in automated testing. of vibrations and electrical disturbances on raw data collected,
stress-strain charts, and operation of equipment.
X3.4.5 Reduction of area, when required, shall be deter-
mined in accordance with the requirements of Test Methods X3.7 Controls
E 8 or E 8M. X3.7.1 Controlled procedures and work instructions should
X3.4.6 Procedures for recording, calculating, and reporting cover all aspects of specimen preparation, tensile testing, and
data and test results shall conform to all applicable require- result reporting. These documents should be readily available
ments of Test Methods E 8 or E 8M. In addition, wherever to all involved in the documented tasks.
practical, the procedures should also be in accordance with X3.7.2 Clear, concise, operating instructions should be
widely accepted provisions of good laboratory practice, such as maintained for equipment used in specimen preparation and
those detailed below. tensile testing. These instructions should be readily available to
X3.4.6.1 When recording data, personnel should record all all qualified operators.
figures that are definite, plus the best estimate of the first figure X3.7.3 All applicable verification requirements shall be
which is uncertain. (If a result is known to be approximately met, as detailed in X3.3.2.
midway between 26 and 27, 26.5 should be the result recorded X3.7.4 It is recommended that special studies and programs
(not 26, 27, or 26.475). be employed to monitor and control tensile testing, because
X3.4.6.2 When performing calculations, personnel should tensile test results are easily affected by operators, measuring
avoid compounding of rounding errors. This may be accom- devices, and test equipment. Examples of such programs
plished by performing one large calculation, rather than several include but are not limited to:
calculations using individual results. Alternatively, if multi- X3.7.4.1 Round-robin studies, proficiency tests, or other
step calculations are done, intermediate results should not be cross-checks,
rounded before use in subsequent calculations. X3.7.4.2 Repeatability and reproducibility (R and R) stud-
X3.4.6.3 In rounding, no final result should retain more ies,
significant figures than the least-significant-figure measure- X3.7.4.3 Control charting, and
ment or data point used in the calculation. X3.7.4.4 Determination of typical lab uncertainties for each
result typically reported.
X3.5 Retention
NOTE X3.5—For nondestructive testing, repeatability and reproducibil-
X3.5.1 A retention program appropriate for the nature and ity are often measured by conducting gage R and R studies, as discussed
frequency of testing done in the laboratory should be main- in Appendix X2 of Test Methods E 8 and E 8M. These studies involve
tained. Items that may warrant retention for defined time repeated determination of a test result, using a single part or specimen, so
periods include: gage R and Rs are not directly applicable to mechanical properties, which
X3.5.1.1 Raw data and forms, are obtained through destructive testing. (True differences between even
the best duplicate specimens manifest themselves in the form of poorer R
X3.5.1.2 Force-elongation or stress-strain charts, and R results than would be obtained for perfect duplicates.) Nevertheless,
X3.5.1.3 Computer printouts of curves and test results, quasi-R and R studies conducted with these limitations taken into
X3.5.1.4 Data and results stored on computer discs or hard consideration may be helpful in analyzing sources of error and improving
drives, reliability of test results.

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SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee E28 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (E 8M – 03)
that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved July 10, 2003)

(1) Section 7.9.3.2 was revised. Note 36 and a discussion were

added following this revised section.

Committee E28 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (E 8M – 01) that may
impact the use of this standard. (Approved Oct. 10, 2001)

(1) Section 6.5 and it subsections were revised. (3) Appendix X3 was added.
(2) Note 10 was deleted and the remaining notes were
renumbered.

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.

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