Pure bending determination of stress-strain curves for an Aluminum alloy

The uniaxial tensile or compressive test provides a fundamental indication of strength and stiffness properties for a given material. The primary concept to characterize a material by axial testing is changing. Currently, there is a pure bending experimental method by which it is possible to obtain simultaneously tensile and compressive stress-strain curves. In this paper, it is presented a pure bending method to determine the stress-strain behavior of a material. Results were obtained on final manufactured specimens from Aluminum alloy 6063-T5. The advantages of this method are related mainly with its versatility and easy implementation. Besides, it demonstrates feasibility to determine previous loading history in a component. Additionally it does not need extensive mechanical preparation of specimens. The method presented is based on calculations from the value of the bending moment and the corresponding value of the strain produced in the upper and lower surfaces of the specimen. Bending experimental results were compared against axial testing. Results and the affinity derived from the balance in stressstrain curves are satisfactory.