3 - Methods for testing materials - Simple workshop tests

Question 1

Tensile strength test

Answer 1

Less deflection under load means the material has more tensile strength

Question 2

Toughness test

Answer 2

Tough materials absorb impact, brittle materials shatter

Question 3

Hardness test

Answer 3

Dot punch and force from hammer.

Smaller the indent, the harder the material

Question 4

Malleability and ductility test

Answer 4

Test piece is bent 90 degrees.

Cracks on the outside indicate a lack of ductility

Cracks on the inside demonstrate a lack of malleability

Question 5

Corrosion testing

Answer 5

Place equally sized material samples outside in an area exposed to the effects of weather

Leave for a set amount of time

Materials then visually inspected for surface corrosion

Question 6

Electrical conductivity test

Answer 6

Collect material samples of the same dimensions

Mark a set distance to place the multimeter probes

Measure the resistance on the multimeter. Higher resistance indicates lower conductivity

Question 7

Thermal conductivity test

Answer 7

Collect material samples of same dimensions

Measure a set distance from one end of the material and place a thermometer there.

Light a Bunsen burner on the other end of the material

Record the time taken for the temperature to reach the other end of the material

The shorter the time it takes, the higher thermal conductivity of the material