Steel is commonly tested primarily in which manner?

Steel is primarily tested in tension because this method best reflects the material's behavior under loads that it will commonly encounter in structural applications. When steel is subjected to tension, it experiences stretching, which helps to determine its yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, and ductility. These properties are crucial for predicting how steel will perform in real-world applications, such as beams or columns in buildings, where tensile forces are prevalent.

Testing in tension allows engineers and designers to ensure safety and reliability, as steel structures must withstand various loads without failing. While compression, flexural, and shear tests are also important, tension tests are fundamental in establishing the core tensile characteristics that influence the overall performance of steel in structures.