Mitchlie Martyr

Title:

CAE 315

Lab 1

Tension in Steel

Purpose: To obtain the Modulus of Elasticity and Length change of a steel sample
Scope:

Dimensions of a steel rod were recorded a before and after tension

tests were conducted on it. The duration of the lab was approximately
30 minutes.

Apparatus:

Vernier Calliper
Steel rod
Extension meter
Micrometer
Steel punch
Tinius Olsen Universal Machine

Procedure:

A test to find the modulus of elasticity of steel is based on

A.S.T.M designation E 111-04. No deviations were made. A brief outline
is as follows.

i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
v.
vi.
vii.
viii.

Make two indents in the steel rod using a steel punch.

Measure the distance between the two indentations.
Use the micrometer to measure the diameter of the steel and calculate
the cross sectional area.
Position the steel rod in the Tinius Olsen universal machine and zero
the force and position on the machines controller.
Position the extension meter along the length of the steel rod.
Input the parameters of the steel rod into the Tinius Olsen software.
Allow the machine to run until the prompt is received to remove the
extension meter.
Record all results.

Mitchlie Martyr

CAE 315

Lab 1

Data:
Parameter

Measurement

Original Length

2.016 in

New Length

2.505 in

Diameter

0.505 in

Area

0.629 in2

Reduction Area (%)

0.0000788 %

Yield Strength

60600 psi

Ultimate Strength (ksi)

94800 psi

Modulus of Elasticity

30x106 psi

Stress vs Strain
50000
f(x) = 30633686.88x - 161.1
R = 1

45000
40000
35000

Stress (psi)

30000

Plastic

25000

Elastic

20000

Linear (Elastic )

15000
10000
5000
0
0

Strain (in/in)

Conclusion: The expected value of the modulus of elasticity of steel is 29x10 5

psi. The experimental value was found to be 30x10 5 psi. This error can
be accounted for from incorrect calibrations in the universal machine

Mitchlie Martyr

CAE 315

Lab 1

and not truly zeroing the equipment. Random errors from using the
Vernier calipers were also encountered.