Mechanical Engineer's Pocket Book, 3rd Edition

6

Engineering Materials

6.1 Mechanical properties

6.1.1 Tensile strength

This is the ability of a material to withstand tensile (stretching) loads without rupture occurring. The material is in tension.

6.1.2 Compressive strength

This is the ability of a material to withstand compressive (squeezing) loads without being crushed or broken. The material is in compression.

6.1.3 Shear strength

This is the ability of a material to withstand offset or transverse loads without rupture occurring. The rivet connecting the two bars shown is in shear whilst the bars ...