1.1 This guide covers recommended formats for the recording of mechanical test data for metals for inclusion in computerized material property databases. From this information, the database designer should be able to construct the data dictionary preparatory to developing a database schema. Not covered within the scope of this standard are guidelines for the identification of the materials themselves, or descriptions of the materials, or both. Those guidelines are covered in separate documents, such as Guides E1338 and E1339.

1.2 The recommended format specified in this guide is suggested for use in recording data in a database, which is different from contractual reporting of actual test results for a specific lot of material. The latter type of information is specified in materials specifications shown in business transactions and is subject to agreement between vendor and purchaser.

1.3 This guide is specific to tension testing by Test Methods E8 and E8M, compression testing by Test Methods E9, notched bar impact testing by Test Methods E23, and pin-type bearing testing by Test Method E238.