Bend testing
Resistance to bending is a material’s capacity to withstand forces applied perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.
The aim of bend testing is to determine a material’s mechanical properties in response to stresses and strains (deformations) at peak and break points, as well as its flexural modulus for bending, by calculating the distance between support anvils based on the thickness of the test piece.
Methods of Applying Bend Tests
Bend tests are carried out in a universal testing machine, which is also used for other tests, such as tensile strength and compression tests. For bend tests, it is necessary to change the support anvils and loading tool. The test involves applying force perpendicular to a test piece held at both ends.
There are two application methods of bend tests:
- The test piece is held at the both ends with no strain and the loading is applied to the midpoint of the test piece (three-point test).
- The test piece is held at the both ends with no strain and the loading is applied to two points equidistant from the ends (four-point test).
Properly performing materials testing is very important because it helps you determine how materials behave under different circumstances, as well as their specific properties. It can also help ensure your products are manufactured in accordance with the regulations and legislation affecting your industry.
Bend Testing Standards
Bend testing is carried out in accordance with the following standards:
- EN ISO 178: Plastics. Determination of flexural properties.
- EN ISO 14125: Fibre-reinforced plastic composites. Determination of flexural properties
