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The flexure test method measures behavior of materials subjected to simple
beam loading. It is also called a transverse beam test with some materials. Maximum fiber stress and
maximum strain are calculated for increments of load. Results are plotted in a
stress-strain diagram. Flexural strength is defined as the maximum stress
in the outermost fiber. This is calculated at the surface of the specimen on the
convex or tension side. Flexural modulus is calculated from the slope of the stress
vs. deflection curve. If the curve has no linear region, a secant line is fitted
to the curve to determine slope.
Why Perform a Flexure Test?
A flexure test produces tensile stress in the convex side of the specimen and compression
stress in the concave side. This creates an area of shear stress along the midline.
To ensure the primary failure comes from tensile or compression stress the shear
stress must be minimized. This is done by controlling the span to depth ratio; the
length of the outer span divided by the height (depth) of the specimen. For most
materials S/d=16 is acceptable. Some materials require S/d=32 to 64 to keep the
shear stress low enough.
Types of Flexure Tests
Flexure testing is often done on relatively flexible materials such as polymers,
wood and composites. There are two test types; 3-point flex and 4-point flex. In
a 3-point test the area of uniform stress is quite small and concentrated under
the center loading point. In a 4-point test, the area of uniform stress exists between
the inner span loading points (typically half the outer span length).
Typical Materials
Polymers
The 3-point flexure test is the most common for polymers. Specimen deflection is
usually measured by the crosshead position. Test results include flexural strength and flexural
modulus.
Wood and Composites
The 4-point flexure test is common for wood and composites. The 4-point test requires
a deflectometer to accurately measure specimen deflection at the center of the support
span. Test results include flexural strength and flexural modulus.
Brittle Materials
When a 3-point flexure test is done on a brittle material like ceramic or concrete
it is often called
modulus of rupture (MOR). This test provides flex strength data
only, not
stiffness (modulus). The 4-point test can also be used on brittle materials.
Alignment of the support and loading anvils is critical with brittle materials.
The test fixture for these materials usually has self-aligning anvils.
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