Mechanical Testing of Materials

Abstract

The mechanical properties of materials have intensive applications in manufacturing processes and to the service life of components. They help us in estimating forces required in forming processes and in predicting the behaviour of materials in shaping processes. Mechanical properties depend on several factors, such as temperature, rate of deformation, surface condition, environment and type of material. Important mechanical properties include tension, compression, hardness, torsion, bending, fatigue, creep, impact etc. Numerous tests have been developed, by which these properties can be measured. These tests are discussed below under different headings.