The standard ensures that when an extensometer reports a specific deformation, the reading matches global metrology standards within a known, strictly defined tolerance. The Extensometer Classification System
is the internationally recognized standard practice used to verify and classify extensometer systems. An extensometer is an instrument used to measure the strain (elongation) of a material test specimen under load.
: Prior to starting, the testing atmosphere and the device must reach thermal equilibrium to eliminate thermal expansion drift.
The core of ASTM E83 is the —the formal process of proving an extensometer system meets its claimed class. Understanding this procedure is essential for anyone searching for the ASTM E83 PDF. astm e83 pdf
The highest precision tier, typically reserved for specialized research and extremely small strain measurements (e.g., measuring the initial modulus of high-stiffness materials).
If you are preparing for a or setting up a new testing rig
: This involves applying a series of controlled displacements to an extensometer using a calibrated apparatus (extensometer calibrator) and comparing the device's output to the reference. The standard ensures that when an extensometer reports
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Without adherence to E83, laboratories cannot guarantee the or reliability of their data, which is a core requirement for Quality Assurance programs.
Extensometers are classified based on the magnitude of their measurement errors. Common classifications include : Prior to starting, the testing atmosphere and
: The standard can be purchased directly from astm.org as a standalone PDF download or via an annual subscription to the Annual Book of ASTM Standards (Volume 03.01).
: The most recent revision, E83-23 , includes critical updates for modern testing, such as Annex A1 , which specifically addresses the verification of optical (non-contact) extensometers. Why You Can't Just Find a "Free" PDF
For professionals in quality control, research, and materials testing, owning and understanding the latest official ASTM E83 PDF is not just a good practice—it is an indispensable requirement. It is a small investment that pays significant dividends in terms of data integrity, regulatory compliance, and product quality, ensuring that the strain measurements you rely on are always accurate and trustworthy.
The classification is determined by evaluating the system's error against the following limits (summarized from the official standard matrix): Classification Maximum Error of Strain Reading (Whichever is greater) Max. Error of Gage Length ±plus or minus 0.1% of value OR ±plus or minus 0.00001 in. (0.00025 mm) ±plus or minus 0.25% of length Class B-1 ±plus or minus 0.5% of value OR ±plus or minus 0.0001 in. (0.0025 mm) ±plus or minus 0.50% of length Class B-2 ±plus or minus 0.5% of value OR ±plus or minus 0.0002 in. (0.0050 mm) ±plus or minus 0.50% of length Class C ±plus or minus 1.0% of value OR ±plus or minus 0.001 in. (0.025 mm) ±plus or minus 1.00% of length Why Laboratories Search for the ASTM E83 PDF
