What is tension? The application of tension involves stretching or pulling a piece of material. Tensile tests are conducted to help specify materials for engineering applications.

Compression is the application of pushing or crushing forces acting upon an object or a material that allows it to become squeezed or squashed. It is the opposite of tension, or the application of pulling forces that allow a material to stretch or elongate.

Why conduct these tests? There are many reasons to perform materials tests. Data from testing can be used by engineers, scientists, designers, and managers. 

Nondestructive testing (NDT) is a type of testing that allows for the examination or analysis of materials and components without sacrificing their usefulness.