Procedure

1. Set the load pointer to zero using the initial adjustment setting.
2. Fix the dial gauge to measure small elongations in the specimen.
3. Measure the diameter of the test specimen using a vernier caliper and determine its mean value. Also, mark the gauge length on the specimen.
4. Grip the specimen securely between the upper and middle crosshead jaws of the Universal Testing Machine (UTM).
5. Start the machine and apply the load gradually to the specimen.
6. Record the applied load and the corresponding dial gauge readings at regular intervals.
7. Continue taking observations until the specimen fractures.
8. Calculate the stress and strain values from the recorded observations.
9. Plot the stress-strain curve using the calculated values.

Virtual Procedure

1. Select the material of the specimen from the available options.
2. Start the experiment by clicking the Play button.
3. Observe the extension of the specimen in the simulation window.
4. As the simulation progresses, observe the corresponding values of load, stress, strain, and elongation.
5. Observe the stress-strain graph generated during the experiment.
6. Use the Comparison tab to compare the stress-strain behaviour of different materials.
7. You may pause, play, or restart the simulation at any stage to examine the values of different parameters.

Note:

Various graph features such as zooming and panning are available. The function of each icon can be viewed by hovering the cursor over the respective icon.