Tim Lai

Lab 413
Prelab #2: The Tension Test
1. A popsicle stick
2. By taking multiple points on the load-displacement graph, we can calculate the stress by
dividing the loads by the cross-sectional area and can calculate strain by dividing
displacements by the unloaded length.
3. The point of rupture should be represented on the curves of the popsicle stick and the
metal specimens since we will record the maximum load that the materials could take.
4. The extensometer will be removed after the specimen begins to yield for the second time
and the X-axis and Y-axis of the plotter are put on standby.
5. 1 inch should be held in the grips
6. We free them by tapping lightly on the jaw faces with the brass block provided
7. Typical ranges of Youngs modulus and yield stresses for steel and aluminum are:
Youngs Modulus (106 Yield Stress (ksi)
psi)
Steel
28-29
36-100
Aluminum
10.1-10.9
14-73
Looking at the modulus of elasticity, the stiffest steel alloy has a modulus value of about
29 106 psi, whereas the least stiff alloy has a modulus value of about 28 106 psi.