4.1 Testing machines that apply and measure displacement are used in many industries. They may be used in research laboratories to determine material properties, and in production lines to qualify products for shipment. The displacement measuring devices integral to the testing machines may be used for measurement of crosshead or actuator displacement over a defined range of operation. The accuracy of the displacement value shall be traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) or another recognized National Laboratory. Practices E2309 provides a procedure to verify these machines and systems, in order that the measured displacement values may be traceable. A key element to having traceability is that the devices used in the verification produce known displacement characteristics, and have been calibrated in accordance with adequate calibration standards.

1.1 These practices cover procedures and requirements for the calibration and verification of displacement measuring systems by means of standard calibration devices for static and quasi-static testing machines. This practice is not intended to be complete purchase specifications for testing machines or displacement measuring systems. Displacement measuring systems are not intended to be used for the determination of strain. See Practice E83.

1.2 These procedures apply to the verification of the displacement measuring systems associated with the testing machine, such as a scale, dial, marked or unmarked recorder chart, digital display, etc. In all cases the buyer/owner/user must designate the displacement-measuring system(s) to be verified.

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 Displacement values indicated on displays/printouts of testing machine data systems—be they instantaneous, delayed, stored, or retransmitted—which are within the Classification criteria listed in Table 1, comply with Practices E2309/E2309M.

1.5 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.