Overview
ISO 5893:2019 specifies requirements for tensile-testing systems that operate at a constant rate of traverse and are suitable for testing rubber, plastics and adhesives. The standard addresses machines used for tensile, flexural, shear and compression tests and defines how to designate machine accuracy, select grips and jigs, measure force and elongation, and verify machine performance.
This specification is intended for manufacturers, test-laboratory managers and quality engineers who need to ensure that mechanical test systems deliver reliable, comparable data for material characterization and product development.
Key Topics
- Designation of machine class: Machines are classified by force accuracy (classes 0.5, 1, 2, 3 per ISO 7500-1) and elongation/deflection accuracy (classes A–E). The class designation communicates expected measurement performance.
- Design features: Size, construction and axial alignment with the strain axis are emphasised to avoid artifacts in test results. Crosshead traverse must accommodate expected elongation (very extensible materials may require long traverse).
- Test piece grips and jigs: Requirements for wedge, pneumatic or screw-action grips are described to minimise slippage and ensure uniform pressure. Specific fixtures for rings, peel tests and compression/flexure are covered.
- Force-measuring systems: Continuous force indication and preferably automatic recording are required. Low-inertia systems are preferred to reduce dynamic errors.
- Accuracy and verification: Steady-state accuracy is verified per ISO 7500-1. Dynamic performance of recorders and electromechanical devices is discussed; manufacturers should provide dynamic-accuracy figures when needed.
- Elongation measurement: Options include grip separation, attached extensometers and non-contact (optical) extensometers. Extensometer classes A–E and gauge-length accuracy requirements are specified; manufacturers must state the minimum elongation at which specified accuracy is achieved.
Applications
- Laboratory material characterization for rubber compounds and thermoplastic products.
- Quality control in production lines where tensile, compression or flexural properties must meet specified limits.
- Adhesion and peel testing for laminates, coatings and bonded assemblies using appropriate grips and fixtures.
- Research and development where repeatable, accurate force/elongation data are required for design or failure analysis.
Practical value: ISO 5893 guides procurement and setup of test machines, helps select appropriate grips and measurement methods, and supports traceable verification cycles to reduce inter-laboratory variability.
Related Standards
- ISO 7500-1 - Calibration and verification of static uniaxial testing machines (force-measuring verification).
For compliance and implementation, obtain the full ISO 5893:2019 document and consult national standards bodies or the machine manufacturer for verification, dynamic recorder data and recommended test procedures.
Open preview (PDF)Rubber and plastics test equipment — Tensile, flexural and compression types (constant rate of traverse) — Specification
