Misalignment can significantly skew test results. It introduces bending stress on top of axial stress, so the material may appear to have a lower tensile strength or modulus than it actually does. Results become less repeatable, as different specimens might bend in different directions. Essentially, you get inaccurate measurements and higher scatter in data, which can make it difficult to certify materials or compare results. By using the Alignment Device to ensure a straight loading path, you improve the accuracy and repeatability of your measurements, giving you tighter data consistency.