Compression testing of cast iron: fracture orientation In a compression test on a cast iron specimen (a brittle material), indicate the most likely fracture path. Select the correct description.
Mechanical Engineering
Strength of Materials
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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AAlong the axis of load
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BAlong an oblique plane (≈ 45° to axis)
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CAt right angles to the specimen axis
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DNo fracture occurs in compression
Answer
Correct Answer: Along an oblique plane (≈ 45° to axis)
Explanation
ConceptBrittle materials like cast iron fail in compression by shear along planes where maximum shear stress acts, typically around 45° to the axis of loading.
Why not others?Fracture perpendicular to the axis is more typical in tension; axial cracking is not the governing failure mode in brittle compression; brittle specimens can and do fracture in compression.
Final AnswerAlong an oblique plane (≈ 45° to axis).