- A tensometer is a device used to evaluate the tensile properties of materials such as their Young's modulus
(i.e. the degree to which they stretch under stress) and tensile strength.
- It is usually a universal testing machine loaded with a sample between two grips that are
either adjusted manually or automatically to apply force to the specimen.
- The machine works either by driving a screw or by hydraulic ram.
- The latter have the great advantage of
being able to create much more complex loading patterns, such as the cyclical loads needed for measurement of fatigue strength.
- Machines can also be equipped
with environmental chambers for testing at different temperatures or variable humidity, for example.
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