5.1 The round robin testing on which the precision and bias for this test method have been determined employed a range of graphites (see Table 2) whose grain sizes were of the order of 1 mil to ¹/₄ in. (0.0254 mm to 6.4 mm) and larger. This wide range of carbons and graphites can be tested with uniform gauge diameters with minimum parasitic stresses to provide quality data for use in engineering applications rather than simply for quality control. This test method can be easily adapted to elevated temperature testing of carbons and graphites without changing the specimen size or configuration by simply utilizing elevated temperature materials for the load train. This test method has been utilized for temperatures as high as 4352 °F (2400 °C). The design of the fixtures (Figs. 2-9 and Table 1) and description of the procedures are intended to bring about, on the average, parasitic stresses of less than 5 %. The specimens for the different graphites have been designed to ensure fracture within the gauge section commensurate with experienced variability in machining and testing care at different facilities. The constant gauge diameter permits rigorous analytical treatment.

5.2 Carbon and graphite materials exhibit significant physical property differences within parent materials. Exact sampling patterns and grain orientations must be specified in order to make meaningful tensile strength comparisons. See also Test Methods C565.

1.1 This test method covers the testing of carbon and graphite in tension to obtain the tensile stress-strain behavior, to failure, from which the ultimate strength, the strain to failure, and the elastic moduli may be calculated as may be required for engineering applications. Table 2 lists suggested sizes of specimens that can be used in the tests.

1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. Conversions are not provided in the tables and figures.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, 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.