ASTM E21 Elevated-Temperature Tensile Testing of Metallic Materials

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ASTM E21 is the test method for tension testing of metallic materials at elevated temperature. It adds temperature control and thermal soak requirements on top of a standard tensile test. To set up elevated-temperature testing, talk with our team.

What ASTM E21 Covers

The method applies when tensile properties are needed above room temperature, such as for high-temperature alloys and components. It defines how the specimen is heated, held at temperature, and pulled while temperature is maintained within tolerance.

Temperature Control and Soak

Accurate, uniform specimen temperature is the defining requirement. The specimen is brought to the target temperature, held for a defined soak so it is uniform through the section, and kept within a tight band throughout the test. Thermocouples on the gauge section monitor uniformity.

Properties Reported

Results include yield strength, tensile strength, and elongation at the test temperature, used for high-temperature design and qualification. High-temperature extensometry is required to capture strain.

Preparing Specimens

Specimen geometry and threaded or shouldered ends must suit hot grips and a furnace. To configure a high-temperature tensile system, request a quote.

Reading the Designation

Cited with a year suffix such as ASTM E21-YY. Confirm the edition and the required temperatures.

Related Standards

ASTM E8/E8M covers room-temperature metal tensile testing, and ISO 6892-2 is the ISO elevated-temperature equivalent.

Request a Quote

Setting up elevated-temperature tensile testing? Request a quote and our team will help you build a system matched to your temperature range and specimen type.


TensileMill CNC products for ASTM E21

Our specimen-preparation systems and testing equipment compatible with ASTM E21:


Set up ASTM E21 testing with TensileMill CNC

TensileMill CNC builds testing systems used across quality control, research, and production. Our range includes universal testing machines, wedge or pneumatic grips, and flat and round specimen-preparation systems. Share your material mix and throughput, and we will recommend a setup that fits ASTM E21.