Enter the fracture or final length (in) and the initial length (in) into the Calculator. The calculator will evaluate the Percent Elongation.
Percent Elongation Formula
PE = (FL - IL) / IL * 100
Variables:
- PE is the Percent Elongation (%)
- FL is the fracture or final length (in)
- IL is the initial length (in)
To calculate the Percent Elongation, divide the difference between the final and initial length
How to Calculate Percent Elongation?
The following steps outline how to calculate the Percent Elongation.
- First, determine the fracture or final length (in).
- Next, determine the initial length (in).
- Next, gather the formula from above = PE = (FL – IL) / IL * 100.
- Finally, calculate the Percent Elongation.
- After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.
Example Problem :
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
fracture or final length (in) = 45
initial length (in) = 100
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Percent Elongation and why is it important?
Percent Elongation is a measure of material ductility, indicating how much a material can stretch before breaking. It’s important in engineering and materials science to select materials that will withstand mechanical stresses without failing.
How does material composition affect Percent Elongation?
Material composition significantly influences Percent Elongation. Metals with a high degree of ductility, like aluminum and steel, often have higher Percent Elongation values compared to brittle materials such as cast iron.
Can Percent Elongation be used to predict material failure?
While Percent Elongation can indicate a material’s ductility, predicting material failure requires a comprehensive analysis including factors like stress concentration, material flaws, and operating conditions.
Are there any limitations to using the Percent Elongation formula?
Yes, the Percent Elongation formula assumes uniform material properties and does not account for non-linear deformation. It’s most accurate for small deformations in homogeneous, isotropic materials.
