How to Perform ASTM E8 Metal Tensile Testing

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Summary of Test

ASTM E8 is the standard test method for determining the tensile properties of metals and metal alloys, including steel, aluminum, copper, titanium, and other metallic materials. Commonly referred to as ASTM E8 tensile testing or metal tensile testing, this method measures critical mechanical properties such as yield strength, ultimate tensile strength (UTS), elongation, reduction of area, and ductility under uniaxial tensile loading conditions.

ASTM E8 testing is widely used for alloy development, material comparison, quality control, production validation, and engineering design applications where accurate stress-strain data is required. Performing ASTM E8 tensile tests requires a universal testing machine (UTM) equipped with the appropriate specimen grips, extensometer, and materials testing software capable of strain-rate control and stress-strain curve analysis. This page provides a practical overview of ASTM E8 specimen requirements, recommended tensile testing equipment, testing procedures, and key calculations used in metal tensile testing applications.

eXpert 2600 Universal Testing System
eXpert 1600 Servohydraulic Universal Testing System

Wedge Grips
Hydraulic Grips
Extensometer

Testing Procedure

Measure and record the initial dimensions of the ASTM E8 metal tensile specimen, including the cross-sectional area and gauge length required for engineering stress calculations.
Mark the specimen gauge length using scribe marks or ink to measure elongation after fracture. Consistent gauge length measurement is critical for accurate ASTM E8 elongation calculations.
Secure the specimen in the tensile testing machine grips with clean sample alignment.
Attach an axial extensometer for strain measurement if required.
Run the ASTM E8 tensile test using the strain rate, stress rate, or crosshead speed specified by the standard.Continue testing until specimen fracture occurs.
After failure, fit the fractured specimen ends together and measure the final gauge length to determine percent elongation and reduction of area.

Sample Geometries in ASTM E8