Development of an Advanced Tensile Testing Method for HDPE Composites in High Draw Molded Hollow Circular Regions: Effects of Sample Preparation, Asymmetry, Thermal Conditions, Pull Speed, and Fixture Parameters.

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) composites, particularly in high draw molded hollow circular configurations, present unique challenges in evaluating mechanical performance under tensile stress due to anisotropic deformation, geometric asymmetry, and localized thermal gradients. This study introduces an advanced tensile testing methodology designed specifically to assess such regions with greater precision and reproducibility. The method incorporates refined sample preparation protocols, tailored fixture geometry, and adjustable pull speeds to accommodate varying thermal histories and draw ratios inherent to molded sections. Systematic variation of asymmetrical, temperature conditions, and clamping techniques revealed significant impacts on tensile strength, elongation at break, and strain distribution. Findings emphasize the necessity of customized testing frameworks for molded composite geometries and demonstrate that fixture alignment and thermal conditioning are critical to mitigating error and enhancing material characterization. This approach offers a robust path forward for industrial applications requiring reliable property evaluation in complex HDPE composite structures.