Key Terms in the Steel Pipe Inspection Process (Part 6)

December 11, 2025
Hello Pipe Enthusiasts!
  
In this edition of #BPIPipeInsights!, we’ll take a closer look at Mechanical Analysis – Understanding YS, TS, and Elongation, focusing on three key parameters that always appear in certificates and inspection reports: Yield Strength (YS), Tensile Strength (TS), and Elongation.

Also read previous articles in this series:
What is Yield Strength (YS)?  
  • Definition: Yield Strength is the minimum stress at which a material loses its elasticity.  
  • Practical meaning: indicates how much load a pipe can withstand before it begins to deform permanently.  
  • Relevance: the higher the YS, the stronger the pipe against pressure, though usually less flexible.  
What is Tensile Strength (TS)?  
  • Definition: Tensile Strength, sometimes called Ultimate Strength, is the maximum stress a material can endure before breaking.  
  • Practical meaning: shows the ultimate strength of the material.  
  • Relevance: TS is crucial to ensure the pipe does not fracture under extreme loads.  
What is Elongation?  
  • Definition: the percentage increase in length of a material before it breaks.  
  • Practical meaning: measures ductility and the ability of steel to withstand deformation.  
  • Relevance: the higher the elongation, the tougher the pipe, making it less likely to crack during installation or bending.  
Important Note  
Just like chemical analysis, the values of Yield Strength (YS), Tensile Strength (TS), and Elongation are not fixed universally. Each international standard such as API, ASTM, JIS, and SNI specifies different minimum or maximum requirements depending on the pipe grade. Therefore, mechanical analysis results must always be compared against the relevant standard to ensure the steel pipe is safe and suitable for project needs.
  
Role in Certificates & Reports  
  • Certificate → records YS, TS, and elongation values according to standards, for example in the Mill’s Inspection Certificate.  
  • Report → presents these values alongside other mechanical tests (hardness, impact, bend), such as laboratory test reports.  
  • Customer benefit → assurance that steel pipes are not only chemically compliant but also mechanically safe and reliable.  
Conclusion  
YS, TS, and elongation are three key indicators that define the mechanical performance of steel pipes. By understanding these values, customers can be confident that BPI steel pipes meet international standards and are ready for diverse infrastructure and industrial applications.
  
If you need steel pipes, trust Bakrie Pipe Industries. With international standards, integrated services, and a commitment to sustainability, BPI is your reliable partner for project success. 
 
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