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METHODS

Tensile test, compression test, flexural test

Static and quasi-static tensile, compression and flexural tests on metallic, polymeric and ceramic materials to determine strength values, elastic limit, elongation at break, constriction at break and modulus of elasticity (E‑modulus) as well as graphical recording of the measured values.

According to which standards do we test?

Tensile testing
Flexural test
  • ISO 527-1
  • ISO 527-2
  • ISO 527-3
  • ISO 527-4
  • ISO 527-5
  • ISO 6892-1
  • ASTM E8M

Compression testing
  • DIN 50106
  • ISO 178
  • ISO 7438
  • EN 843-1

Sample preparation
  • ISO 377
  • ISO 3167
  • ISO 20753
  • ISO 23529
  • DIN 50125

Our devices fulfill quality class 0.5 or 1.0 for force and displacement measurement in accordance with ISO 7500-1 or ISO 9513.

Which devices do we use?

  • ZwickRoell Z250 with a force range up to 250 kN
  • ZwickRoell 1475 with a force range up to 100 kN
  • ZwickRoell ZwickiLine Z5.0 with a force range up to 2.5 kN

For which material tests do
do we use this method?

We use tensile, compression and flexural testing for the following tests, among others:

What you should know about this method?

What needs to be considered with this method and the samples?

Suitable samples:
Standardized samples made of metals, ceramics, plastics or composite materials. Others on request.

Specimen specifications:
The specimen specifications are based on the respective requirements and the specific standards that are relevant for the test. As a rule, the specifications relate to the size, shape and production of the samples as well as the sampling. We are happy to support you in the standard-compliant production of your samples or offer alternative solutions tailored to your requirements.

Standard:
Homogeneous solid sample material is always used as standard. We will be happy to check for you whether your samples are tested in accordance with the relevant test standards or whether they can be tested in a standard-independent setup. On request, we can flexibly adapt the test methods and sample preparations to your requirements and provide you with a customized offer.

How are the test results documented?

The test results are recorded in detail in a test report. This includes, for example, a graphical representation of the measured values and the relevant characteristic values.
On request, the data points can be prepared and made available in an Excel file.

Are the samples conditioned before testing or tested under special temperatures?

Yes, samples can be conditioned prior to testing or tested at specific temperatures depending on the requirements of the relevant standard.
The tests are typically performed at the following climatic conditions:
- Metals: 23 ± 5°C.
- Plastics: 23 ± 2 °C. In addition, conditioning is carried out at 50 ± 10 % relative humidity to take into account the moisture absorption behavior of the plastics.

The standard to be tested by us is not specified here, can you test according to other standards?

The portfolio of our tests is very extensive. We test according to recognized methods that determine basic characteristic values. You are welcome to ask us directly at any time whether a particular test is possible in accordance with a specific standard.

For some tests, it may be necessary to carry out a feasibility analysis in advance. This may involve procuring and studying the standard at a charge. We also check whether additional validations are required and whether quotations for material procurement need to be prepared. The entire consultation is defined as part of a preliminary order.

Can tensile specimens also be tested in their raw state without mechanical post-processing?

Yes, it is possible to test tensile specimens in their raw state without mechanical post-processing. However, it should be noted that inhomogeneities and surface defects can significantly affect the test result, especially in terms of repeatability and accuracy. In addition, it must be ensured that the basic principle of tensile testing continues to work, i.e. the specimens must be able to be clamped correctly in order to achieve precise and reliable results. In some cases, reworking can be useful to improve the quality of the test. Notch-sensitive or sensitized materials that break or slip easily when clamped should always be mechanically reworked and preferably neatened to ensure reliable test results

Which mold types are recommended for tensile specimens?

For tensile tests on metals, we often recommend the optimum shape type B (threaded tensile test with M6-M12), as suitable mounts are available for this, which effectively prevent slipping. Common alternatives are shape type A (round) and shape types E or H (flat) according to DIN 50125. Depending on the requirements, other shape types, for example from standards such as ASTM, are also possible.

For plastics, we recommend mould types 1A or 1BA with the largest possible specimen heads to minimize slippage in the jaws. However, different variants are possible, such as strip shapes for films or other special specimen geometries depending on requirements.

Are the analyses accredited?

RMS is an ISO 17025 accredited analytical laboratory (accreditation type C). Many of the analyses are already validated. New or customer-specific analysis methods can be validated and accredited by us.

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Who is your contact person?

Yannick Brandt-dit-Siméon
Physics laboratory technician EFZ
+41 32 644 2028