Sampling and tensile test of steel structural components

The extraction of samples of metal carpentry from pillars, beams, rods, plates or functional or decorative elements in exercise allows for the determination of steel mechanical properties (yield stress, tensile strength, and strain at maximum load). The sampling process involves the selection of the metal portion to be removed, preferably with a planar or rectilinear shape (e.g., flat, round or tubular) and a total length of approximately 300-450 mm. The final length and shape of the specimen depend on the original dimensions of the element. The sample is extracted by cutting with an angle grinder, and the removed section is subsequently restored by welding a steel plate of identical dimensions to maintain structural integrity. After localizing and cataloguing the specimen with adequate photographic documentation, a tensile test at a state-authorized laboratory is finally carried out.

Reference standard: UNI EN ISO 6892-1:2020