All samples should be prepared as appropriate for the test and be free of any defect that will cause premature failure.

Samples are placed between two grip fixtures and force is applied by motion of the cross-head. The resulting stress is calculated and recorded by the computer. Stress-strain curves are utilized to calculate elastic modulus, elongation/compression at break, ultimate tensile/compression strength, and yield points.

Tensile/compression testing provides information on material properties for strength and toughness.