Mapua University

School of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Energy Engineering

Experiment No. 8

TENSILE OF WELDED

CONSOLACION, Shanei Gwen Trinity Date Performed: February 10, 2026

ME136P-3/C3 Date Submitted: March 05, 2026

2022102201
Group 3

Dr. Mark Christian Manuel

Grade
Instructor
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
OBJECTIVES ............................................................................................................................ 2
THEORIES AND PRINCIPLES .................................................................................................. 2
LIST OF APPARATUS ............................................................................................................... 2
PROCEDURE ............................................................................................................................ 6
SETUP OF APPARATUS .......................................................................................................... 7
FINAL DATA SHEET ................................................................................................................. 8
SAMPLE COMPUTATION ......................................................................................................... 9
LITERATURE REVIEW.............................................................................................................11
Questions and Answers ............................................................................................................11
TEST DATA ANALYSIS ............................................................................................................13
CONCLUSION ..........................................................................................................................14
RECOMMENDATION ...............................................................................................................15
REFERENCES .........................................................................................................................16
APPENDIX................................................................................................................................17
OBJECTIVES

1. To determine the mechanical properties of welded joints when subjected to a tensile load.
2. To compare the tensile strength and ductility of welded and unwelded specimens in order
to evaluate the effect of welding on the mechanical behavior of the material.
3. To analyze the failure characteristics of the welded joint and identify how welding
influences the strength and deformation of the specimen.

THEORIES AND PRINCIPLES

Tensile testing is a fundamental mechanical characterization technique in materials

engineering used to determine how a specimen responds when subjected to uniaxial tensile loading
until fracture. In both base materials and welded joints, this test provides essential mechanical
properties such as yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, ductility, and strain behavior
(ProjectMaterials Editorial Team, 2025). During a tensile test, the specimen is placed in a universal
testing machine and subjected to a steadily increasing tensile force, producing a stress–strain
response that reveals elastic and plastic deformation characteristics (Belgian Welding Institute,
n.d.; ProjectMaterials Editorial Team, 2025).
In tensile analysis, stress (σ) quantifies the internal resistance of a material to the applied
load and is defined as the applied force divided by the cross-sectional area:
𝐹 Eq. 1
𝜎=
𝐴
where σ is stress in N/mm², F is the applied force in newtons (N), and A is the
cross-sectional area in mm² (Belgian Welding Institute, n.d.; Quality Magazine, 2018).
Correspondingly, strain (ε) measures the relative change in gauge length and is expressed as:

Δ𝐿 Eq. 2
𝜖=
𝐿𝑖
where ΔL is the change in gauge length and L_i is the initial gauge length (Belgian Welding
Institute, n.d.; ProjectMaterials Editorial Team, 2025).

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 Material ductility is often quantified through percent elongation (%EL), calculated as:
𝐿𝑓 − 𝐿𝑖 Eq. 3
%𝐸𝐿 = × 100
𝐿𝑖

where L_f is the final gauge length after fracture (Belgian Welding Institute, n.d.). The
cross-sectional area of a circular specimen is determined from its diameter (d) using the
equation:
𝜋𝑑 2 Eq. 4
𝐴=
4
which forms the basis for computing stress and ultimate tensile strength (Belgian Welding
Institute, n.d.). Another important measure of ductility is percent reduction in area (%RA),
which captures necking behavior:
𝐴𝑖 − 𝐴𝑓 Eq. 5
%𝑅𝐴 = × 100
𝐴𝑖
where A_i and A_f represent initial and final cross-sectional areas, respectively (Belgian
Welding Institute, n.d.).
In addition to strength and ductility, the tensile test provides insights into elastic behavior.
Young’s modulus (E), or the modulus of elasticity, describes stiffness and is given by the slope
of the linear portion of the stress–strain curve during elastic deformation (Quality Magazine,
2018). Yield strength is typically determined by an offset method (e.g., 0.2% strain offset),
especially for ductile metals where a distinct yield point may not be clearly defined (QVV
Engineering, n.d.; Quality Magazine, 2018). Ultimate tensile strength (UTS) is identified at the
maximum stress before necking and fracture occur (Wikipedia contributors, 2025).
When applied to welded joints, tensile testing evaluates both the quality and performance
of the weld relative to the unwelded base material. Standards such as ISO 6892-1, ISO 4136,
ASTM E8/E8M, and AWS specifications provide test methods and specimen requirements to
ensure that welds meet required strength criteria (Belgian Welding Institute, n.d.; QVV
Engineering, n.d.). Typically, welded joints are considered acceptable when their tensile strength
approaches a significant percentage (often 80−100%) of the parent material strength, depending
on the application and material specifications (ProjectMaterials Editorial Team, 2025). This
comparative approach allows engineers to assess how welding processes — including heat input,
joint design, and residual stresses — influence mechanical behavior and failure modes.

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LIST OF APPARATUS

Table 8.1. List of Apparatus and Materials Used for Concrete Mix Specimen Preparation

Shіdmаdzս Սnіvеrsаl Bench Grinder SMAW Portable Welding

Tеstіng Mаchіnе ՍH-А-C Machine
Sеrіеs Calibration Date:
December 15, 2025
Calibration date:
September 24, 2025

KERN DE 15K0.2D Round Bar (Specimen) SMAW Welding Rods

Platform Digital Scаlе

Calibration Date:
November 27, 2025

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Mitutoyo Digimatic Cаlіpеr Stanley Measuring tape Welding Helmet and
Model No. CD-8”ASX Welding Gloves

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PROCEDURE

Figure 8.1. Methodology

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SETUP OF APPARATUS

Figure 8.2. Welded specimen mounted on the Shimadzu

Universal Testing Machine (UTM)

The machine applies a

controlled tensile force along the axis
of the specimen until fracture occurs,
enabling accurate measurement of its
mechanical properties such as
ultimate tensile strength, elongation,
and reduction in area. This setup
allows direct comparison between the
welded joint and unwelded base
material to evaluate the effect of
welding on tensile behavior. Care
was taken to ensure proper alignment
of the specimen to prevent bending or
eccentric loading during the test.

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FINAL DATA SHEET
Table 8.1. Summary of Tensile Test Results for Welded Joint
TENSILE TEST OF WELDED JOINT
CONSOLACION, Shanei Section C2
Date: February 24, 2025 Group 3
Specimen “U” Specimen “W”
PARAMETERS
(Unwelded) (Welded)
Type of Bar Medum Ribbed Medium Round Bar

Dimension (mm) 600 600

Type of Welding Joints N/A Butt Joint
Type of Welding Used N/A Arc Welding
Initial Gauge Length (mm) 200 200
Yield Strength (kN/mm2) 217.227 -
Ultimate Strength (N/mm2) 314.642 188.863
Break Strength (N/mm2) 231.646 147.643
Final Gauge Length (mm) 265 200
Elongation in Length (mm) 65 0
% Elongation 32.5 0
Initial Bar Area (mm2) 462.85 171.97
Final Bar Area (mm2) 417.60 171.97
% Reduction in Area 58.28 4.83

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SAMPLE COMPUTATION

1. Cross-Sectional Area of the Bar

The cross-sectional area of a circular bar is computed using:
𝝅𝒅𝟐
𝑨=
𝟒

where:
A = cross-sectional area (mm²)
d = diameter of the bar (mm)

Specimen “U” – Unwelded

Initial Cross-Sectional Area
Given diameter:
d = 24.27 mm
𝝅(𝟐𝟒. 𝟐𝟕)𝟐
𝑨=
𝟒
𝑨 = 𝟒𝟔𝟐. 𝟖𝟓 𝒎𝒎𝟐
Final Cross-Sectional Area
Given final diameter:
d = 23.06 mm
𝝅(𝟐𝟑. 𝟎𝟔)𝟐
𝑨=
𝟒
𝑨 = 𝟒𝟏𝟕. 𝟔𝟎 𝒎𝒎𝟐
Percent Reduction in Area
𝑨𝒊 − 𝑨𝒇
%𝑹𝑨 = × 𝟏𝟎𝟎
𝑨𝒊

Where:
𝐴𝑖 = initial area
𝐴𝑓 = final area
𝟒𝟔𝟐. 𝟖𝟓 − 𝟒𝟏𝟕. 𝟔𝟎
%𝑹𝑨 = × 𝟏𝟎𝟎
𝟒𝟔𝟐. 𝟖𝟓

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 %𝑹𝑨 = 𝟗. 𝟕𝟖%

Percent Elongation
𝑳 𝒇 − 𝑳𝒊
%𝑬𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 = × 𝟏𝟎𝟎
𝑳𝒊

Where:
𝐿𝑖 = 200 𝑚𝑚(initial gauge length)
𝑳𝒇 = 𝟐𝟔𝟓 𝒎𝒎
𝟐𝟔𝟓 − 𝟐𝟎𝟎
%𝑬𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 = × 𝟏𝟎𝟎
𝟐𝟎𝟎
%𝑬𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 = 𝟑𝟐. 𝟓%

Specimen “W” – Welded

Initial Cross-Sectional Area
Given diameter:
d = 14.80 mm
𝝅(𝟏𝟒. 𝟖𝟎)𝟐
𝑨=
𝟒
𝑨 = 𝟏𝟕𝟏. 𝟗𝟕 𝒎𝒎𝟐

Final Cross-Sectional Area

Measured final area:
𝑨𝒇 = 𝟏𝟕𝟏. 𝟗𝟕 𝒎𝒎𝟐

Percent Reduction in Area

𝑨𝒊 − 𝑨𝒇
%𝑹𝑨 = × 𝟏𝟎𝟎
𝑨𝒊
𝟏𝟖𝟎. 𝟐𝟕 − 𝟏𝟕𝟏. 𝟗𝟕
%𝑹𝑨 = × 𝟏𝟎𝟎
𝟏𝟕𝟏. 𝟗𝟕
%𝑹𝑨 = 𝟒. 𝟖𝟑%

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LITERATURE REVIEW

Questions and Answers

1. Why is tensile testing important specifically for welded joints rather than just the base metal?

- Tensile testing is important for welded joints because the welding process can alter the material

properties at the joint and in the heat-affected zone. The high heat used during welding may

cause microstructural changes, residual stresses, or defects that can weaken the welded region

compared to the base metal. By performing tensile testing, the strength and ductility of the

welded joint can be evaluated and compared with the base material. This helps determine

whether the weld is strong enough and reliable for its intended application.

2. What does the location of fracture indicate in a tensile test of a welded joint?

- The location of fracture in a tensile test of a welded joint indicates the weakest region of the

specimen. If the fracture occurs at or near the weld, it suggests that the welded joint or heat-

affected zone is weaker than the base metal. On the other hand, if the fracture occurs away from

the weld in the base material, it indicates that the weld is strong and that the base metal failed

first. This helps evaluate the quality and strength of the welded joint.

3. How does the heat-affected zone (HAZ) influence tensile behavior?

- The heat-affected zone (HAZ) influences tensile behavior because it undergoes microstructural

changes due to the high temperature generated during the welding process. These changes can

alter the strength, hardness, and ductility of the material near the weld. As a result, the HAZ

may become either harder and more brittle or softer and weaker than the base metal. This

variation in properties can create stress concentrations, making the HAZ a possible location for

fracture during a tensile [Link] a weak point where yielding or fracture may initiate

during a tensile test.

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4. How do residual stresses affect the tensile performance of welded joints?

- Residual stresses are internal stresses that remain in the material after the welding process due

to uneven heating and cooling. These stresses can weaken the welded joint by adding extra stress

to the material even before any external load is applied. During tensile testing, residual stresses

can contribute to earlier crack initiation and reduce the overall strength and ductility of the

welded joint, making it more likely to fail at or near the weld area.

5. How does joint design, such as a butt joint, influence tensile strength?

- Joint design, such as a butt joint, directly affects the distribution of stress and the tensile

strength of a welded connection. A properly prepared butt joint allows for uniform penetration

and fusion between the two pieces, which helps the joint carry loads more effectively. If the

joint is poorly designed or misaligned, stress concentrations can occur at the weld edges,

reducing tensile strength and increasing the likelihood of fracture at the welded area. Thus,

correct joint design is crucial to maximize the load-bearing capacity of the weld.

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TEST DATA ANALYSIS

The tensile test results indicate significant differences between the welded and unwelded
specimens, reflecting the effect of the welded joint on mechanical properties. The unwelded
specimen (U), which served as the control, exhibited an ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of
314.642 N/mm², while the welded specimen (W) achieved only 188.863 N/mm², indicating a
reduction of approximately 40% in the load-bearing capacity. This reduction is primarily due to
stress concentration and microstructural changes in the heat-affected zone created during welding,
which can weaken the material locally (ProjectMaterials Editorial Team, 2025).
Ductility was also affected by welding. The unwelded specimen demonstrated significant
elongation of 65 mm, equivalent to 32.5%, whereas the welded specimen showed no measurable
elongation, highlighting the more brittle nature of the welded joint. Similarly, the percent
reduction in cross-sectional area was higher in specimen U (9.78%) compared to specimen W
(4.83%), indicating that the welded joint limits plastic deformation prior to fracture. These
observations are consistent with the tendency of welded joints to fail in or near the weld due to
residual stresses and potential microstructural inhomogeneities in the heat-affected zone (Belgian
Welding Institute, n.d.).
Failure location further supports this analysis. In the unwelded specimen, fracture occurred
away from the region corresponding to the previous weld location, showing that the base metal
was the limiting factor in tensile strength. In contrast, the welded specimen failed at or near the
welded joint, emphasizing the joint as the weakest point in the structure. Overall, these results
demonstrate that while welding is essential for joining components, it can significantly reduce the
tensile strength and ductility of the material if not properly executed. Therefore, the quality of the
weld, proper joint preparation, and adherence to welding procedures are critical to ensuring that
welded joints perform reliably under tensile loading.

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CONCLUSION

The experiment successfully evaluated the tensile behavior of welded joints and achieved the
stated objectives through tensile testing using the Shimadzu Universal Testing Machine UH-A-C
Series. The results made it possible to determine the mechanical properties of the welded specimen
and compare them with those of the unwelded specimen obtained from the previous experiment.
The unwelded specimen exhibited higher mechanical performance, with an ultimate tensile
strength of 314.642 N/mm² and an elongation of 32.5%, indicating good ductility and the ability
of the material to undergo plastic deformation before fracture. In contrast, the welded specimen
showed a lower ultimate tensile strength of 188.863 N/mm² and no measurable elongation,
indicating reduced strength and ductility due to the presence of the welded joint.
The comparison between the welded and unwelded specimens clearly demonstrates the
effect of welding on the mechanical behavior of the material. The welding process introduced
changes in the material structure, particularly within the heat-affected zone, which may lead to
stress concentrations and reduced load-carrying capacity. As a result, the welded specimen
fractured earlier and exhibited minimal deformation compared to the unwelded specimen.
Furthermore, the failure characteristics observed during the test showed that the welded
joint acted as the weakest region of the specimen. This confirms that welded connections must be
carefully designed and executed to ensure structural reliability. Overall, the experiment highlights
the importance of proper welding techniques and quality control in maintaining the strength and
performance of welded structures when subjected to tensile loading.

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RECOMMENDATION

Based on the results of the experiment, it is recommended that proper welding preparation
and procedures be strictly followed to improve the strength and reliability of welded joints.
Adequate joint preparation, such as proper edge grinding and alignment before welding, should be
ensured to achieve better fusion and minimize defects that may weaken the welded region. In
addition, selecting appropriate welding parameters and electrodes during the Shielded Metal Arc
Welding (SMAW) process can help produce stronger and more consistent welds.
It is also recommended that multiple trials and additional specimens be tested to obtain
more reliable and consistent results for comparison between welded and unwelded materials.
Conducting other mechanical tests such as bend tests or impact tests may further evaluate the
performance and durability of the welded joint under different loading conditions. Finally,
ensuring proper calibration and operation of the testing equipment, such as the Shimadzu Universal
Testing Machine UH-A-C Series, will help maintain the accuracy and validity of the experimental
results.

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REFERENCES

Belgian Welding Institute. (n.d.). Tensile test. Retrieved from [Link]

Mapúa Tech / Mapua Institute of Technology. (2026). Instructional Materials for Engineering

Materials and Testings Laboratory.

ProjectMaterials Editorial Team. (2025). What is tensile testing? Retrieved from

[Link]

Quality Magazine. (2018). Tensile testing principles: Fundamentals, methods and challenges.

Retrieved from [Link]

fundamentals-methods-and-challenges

QVV Engineering. (n.d.). Tensile test – destructive testing. Retrieved from

[Link]

Wikipedia contributors. (2025). Ultimate tensile strength. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia.

Retrieved from [Link]

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APPENDIX

Figure 8.3. Preliminary Data Sheet for Tensile Test of Welded Joint

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Figure 8.4. Preliminary Sample Computation Sheet for Tensile Test of Welded Joint

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