Ductile Fracture

Most metals exhibit some degree of ductility. Basically, when a metal component or part is stressed (or subjected to use) it will stretch. The ability to stretch without fracturing is called ductility. An illustration of ductility is metal is shown in Photograph A.

Photograph A Ductility is the ability to deform
 without fracture. The subject bolt bent at
an angle of 30 degrees without fracturing.

In Photograph A, this rather large bolt has bent in the bolt shank without breaking. Thus, the bolt would be described as exhibiting a considerable degree or amount of ductility.