A schematic diagram for the stress-strain curve of low carbon steel at room temperature is shown in the figure. Several stages show different behaviors, which suggests different mechanical properties. Materials can miss one or more stages shown in the figure or have different stages to clarify. In this case, we have to distinguish between stress-strain characteristics of ductile and brittle materials. The following points describe the different regions of the stress-strain curve and the importance of several specific locations.
Proportional Limit
The proportional limit corresponds to the location of stress at the end of the linear region, so the stress-strain graph is a straight line, and the gradient will be equal to the elastic modulus of the material. For tensile and compressive stress, the slope of the portion of the curve where stress is proportional to strain is referred to as Young’s modulus, and Hooke’s Law applies. Between the proportional limit and the yield point, Hooke’s Law becomes questionable, and strain increases more rapidly.