1. Scope

1.1 These test methods cover the determination of the time dependence of stress (stress relaxation) in materials and structures under conditions of approximately constant constraint, constant environment, and negligible vibration. In the procedures recommended, the material or structure is initially constrained by externally applied forces, and the change in the external force necessary to maintain this constraint is determined as a function of time.

1.2 Specific methods for conducting stress relaxation tests on materials subjected to tension, compression, bending and torsion loads are described in Parts A, B, C, and D, respectively. These test methods also include recommendations for the necessary testing equipment and for the analysis of the test data.

1.3 It is recognized that the long time periods required for these types of tests are often unsuited for routine testing or for specification in the purchase of material. However, these tests are valuable tools in obtaining practical design information on the stress relaxation of materials subjected to the conditions enumerated, and in investigations of the fundamental behavior of materials.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address the safety problems associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

2. Referenced Documents (purchase separately) The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.

ASTM Standards

D2991 Test Method for Stress-Relaxation of Plastics

E4 Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines

E8/E8M Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Materials

E9 Test Methods of Compression Testing of Metallic Materials at Room Temperature

E83 Practice for Verification and Classification of Extensometer Systems

E139 Test Methods for Conducting Creep, Creep-Rupture, and Stress-Rupture Tests of Metallic Materials

E1012 Practice for Verification of Testing Frame and Specimen Alignment Under Tensile and Compressive Axial Force Application

Keywords

bending relaxation; bolting; compression relaxation; hoop stresses; riveting; springs; stress relaxation; tension relaxation; torsion relaxation; Bending relaxation; Castings; Compression testing--metallic materials; Elongation--metallic materials; Extensometers; Forgings; Gaskets; Hoop stress test; Humidity; Inclusions--metals/alloys; Joints; Loading tests--metals/alloys; Stress relaxation tests; Metals and metallic materials; Metals and metallic materials--inclusion rating; Notches; Springs; Strain testing; Stress cracking tests; Structural metals/alloys; Tensile properties/testing--metallic materials; Welding/welds;

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 19.020 (Test conditions and procedures in general)

DOI: 10.1520/E0328-86R96E01

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