This specification covers operating characteristics of tensile testing machines for the determination of the force-elongation properties of textile materials. Types of tensile machine covered in this specification are constant-rate-of-extension, constant-rate-of-traverse, and constant-rate-of-loading. Testing machines calibration shall be verified using the methods indicated in this specification, especially when moved to different locations to make sure that they still meet the specified tolerances. Motor-driven machine is preferred over manually driven machine. Constant-rate-of-traverse type machines shall not be used for measuring forces below fifty times their resolution. Machines shall be equipped with a device for measuring force. Clamping or holding devices shall be prescribed in test methods. Maximum allowable error, indicated force, recorded elongation, nominal gage length, and moving clamp speed shall be within the tolerances prescribed in the individual standards. Verification methods for recorded clamp displacement, recorded elongation, and nominal gage length, shall conform to the procedures indicated in this specification.

1.1 This specification covers the operating characteristics of three types of tensile testing machines used for the determination of the force-elongation properties of textile materials. These types of tensile testing machines are:

1.1.1 Constant-rate-of-extension, CRE.

1.1.2 Constant-rate-of-traverse, CRT.

1.1.3 Constant-rate-of-loading (force), CRL.

1.2 Specifications for tensile testing machines to measure other tensile-related properties of textile materials not covered by this standard are given in the ASTM standards using those machines.

1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.4 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test methods described in this specification: 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.