ASTM E 328 : 2021

1.1These test methods cover the determination of the time dependence of stress (stress relaxation) in materials and structures under conditions of approximately constant constraint, constant test environment, and negligible vibration. In the procedures, the material or structure is initially constrained by externally applied forces, and the change in the external force necessary to maintain this constraint is determined as a function of time.

1.2Specific methods for conducting stress-relaxation tests on materials subjected to tension, compression, bending and torsion stresses are described in Parts A, B, C, and D, respectively. These test methods also include recommendations for the necessary testing equipment and for the analysis of the test data.

1.3Bending stress-relaxation tests to determine relaxation properties by using ring-shaped specimens machined from bulk material have been thoroughly developed and widely used to determine stress-relaxation properties (1).2 These tests are outside the scope of these test methods.

1.4The long time periods required for these types of tests are often unsuited for routine testing or for specification in the purchase of material. However, these tests are valuable tools in obtaining practical design information on the stress relaxation of materials subjected to constant constraint, constant test environment, and negligible vibration, and in investigations of the fundamental behavior of materials.

1.5Units—The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.6This 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.7This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.