Tensile testing, is a fundamental materials science test in which a sample is subjected to a controlled tension until failure. The results from the test are commonly used to select a material for an application, for quality control, and to predict how a material will react under other types of forces. On the other hand, a compression test is a method for determining the behavior of materials under a compressive load. Compression tests are conducted by applying a force to a material and measuring its response.
One of the main reasons why tensile testing is considered better than compression testing is its ability to test material ductility. Ductility is the ability of a material to deform under tensile stress, and it is an important property for many applications. Tensile testing provides a clear and accurate measure of a material’s ductility by measuring the elongation and reduction in the area of the sample as it is pulled apart. This information is crucial for understanding how a material will perform in real-world applications where it may be subjected to tensile forces.
In contrast, compression testing does not provide a direct measure of ductility. While it can provide information about a material’s compressive strength and stiffness, it does not give a clear indication of how the material will behave under tensile stress. This limitation makes compression testing less useful for applications where ductility is a critical factor.
Another advantage of tensile testing is that it can be used to determine other important material properties, such as tensile strength, yield strength, and Young’s modulus. These properties are essential for understanding how a material will perform under different types of loads and can be used to predict its behavior in various applications. Compression testing, on the other hand, is limited to measuring compressive strength and stiffness, which are not as widely applicable.
Tensile testing is also more versatile than compression testing. It can be performed on a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, and composites, and can be used to test both small samples and full-scale components. Compression testing is typically limited to materials that can withstand compressive loads without buckling or collapsing, which excludes many materials that are commonly used in engineering applications.
Furthermore, tensile testing is a more standardized test method, with well-established procedures and equipment. This standardization makes it easier to compare results from different tests and to ensure that tests are conducted consistently and accurately. Compression testing, on the other hand, is less standardized, which can make it more difficult to compare results and to ensure the accuracy of the test.
Experimental Methods of Materials Testing in Tension and Compression.pdf (525.9% u)