Compression Testing

Compression testing is a core mechanical test method used to evaluate how materials and products behave when subjected to a compressive load. By applying force to a sample until it deforms or fails, engineers can measure properties such as compressive strength, modulus and yield behaviour.

The objective is to determine whether a material or product can withstand real-world loads, resist crushing, and maintain its performance over time. Compression testing is widely applied across industries including automotive, aerospace, packaging, construction and medical devices. From verifying that packaging can survive stacking in transit, to ensuring foams provide reliable cushioning, compression testing helps engineers design and validate products that meet safety and performance expectations.

A typical test involves placing a specimen between two plates of a testing machine and gradually applying force. The machine records the compressive force and resulting deformation, which is then plotted as a stress-strain curve. These results give valuable insight into material behaviour and product durability.

Compressive properties describe how a material responds to being pressed, squeezed or compacted. They provide engineers with critical data for applications where load-bearing capacity or resistance to deformation is essential.

Key compressive properties include:

• Compressive strength - the maximum stress a material can withstand before failure.
• Compressive modulus (modulus of elasticity) - the ratio of stress to strain in the elastic region, which indicates stiffness.
• Yield point - the stress level at which permanent deformation begins.

Different materials behave differently under compression. Plastics may deform gradually due to viscoelastic effects, metals usually show a linear response up to yielding, while foams and softer materials compress substantially before resisting further load.

Standards such as ISO 604 define the accepted methods for calculating compressive modulus and strength, ensuring results are accurate and comparable across laboratories and industries.

Compression testing is essential for product development, quality assurance and compliance. Its applications span a wide range of industries and material types.

Plastics and polymers

For plastics and polymers, compression testing determines how a component resists crushing or permanent deformation. In packaging, for example, tests verify that closures and containers can withstand stacking loads. In the medical sector, compression data ensures polymer-based implants remain stable when in service.

Metals and alloys

Metals are valued for their strength and durability, but compression testing confirms how they perform under specific loads. In construction, tests measure the compressive resistance of alloys used in reinforced structures. In manufacturing, the testing of billets and castings helps identify flaws or weak points before components enter service.

Other materials

Compression testing is also widely used for foams, textiles, paper and composites. Seat cushions in the automotive industry undergo compression tests to balance comfort with long-term durability. Cardboard packaging is tested to determine stacking strength, reducing the risk of collapse during storage or transport. Even medical bone scaffolds are tested under compression to ensure they replicate the strength of natural tissue.

Following recognised standards ensures test data is reliable and comparable. Standards specify specimen preparation, testing speeds, calculations and reporting methods.

ASTM standards

• ASTM D695 - specifies the test method for compressive properties of rigid plastics.
• ASTM C133 - covers compression testing for refractories such as ceramics and concrete.

ISO standards

• ISO 604 - defines the method for determining compressive properties of plastics.
• ISO 11747 - used for paper and board, measuring wet strength after soaking, which includes compressive effects.

Where ISO or ASTM standards are not strictly compression-specific, they often include compression-related procedures as part of broader mechanical performance tests. Compliance with these standards ensures products meet both customer expectations and regulatory requirements.

Choosing the right testing system is critical for accurate and repeatable results. Factors such as force range, sample type and testing throughput influence equipment selection.

Mecmesin OmniTest

The OmniTest range is designed for precision compression testing across a wide force spectrum. With high-resolution load cells and automated control, OmniTest systems are ideal for advanced materials research and high-specification testing environments.

Mecmesin MultiTest-dV

The MultiTest-dV is a versatile bench-top testing system suitable for routine quality control and product testing. Its modular design allows for a wide variety of compression fixtures, making it well-suited to industries such as packaging, automotive and consumer goods.

VectorPro software

All Mecmesin systems are operated using VectorPro software, which provides real-time data capture, stress-strain curve generation, automated calculations and compliance with ASTM and ISO standards. The software simplifies analysis, improves traceability and ensures that testing protocols are consistent.

Key considerations

When selecting compression testing equipment, engineers should assess the expected force range, the need for custom fixtures, the level of automation required and the compatibility of the software with existing quality management systems. Proper calibration and maintenance are also essential to maintain long-term accuracy.

Mecmesin has a long history of providing reliable, standards-compliant compression testing systems to industries worldwide.

Wide force range precision systems

From delicate foams and packaging materials to robust metals and structural components, Mecmesin systems deliver accurate and repeatable results across a broad force spectrum.

Standards-aligned software

VectorPro software ensures tests are aligned with ASTM and ISO methodologies. Automated calculations and reporting reduce the risk of error and improve efficiency.

Modular fixtures and custom design

Unique sample shapes or fragile materials often require tailored solutions. Mecmesin designs modular and custom fixtures to ensure accurate and repeatable testing across different applications.

Support, calibration and training

Global support, accredited calibration services and comprehensive training ensure that customers can depend on their equipment throughout its service life. This combination of reliable technology and ongoing expertise gives engineers confidence in their testing results.

Compression testing is critical for ensuring product strength, durability and compliance. Mecmesin’s OmniTest and MultiTest-dV systems, powered by VectorPro software, provide engineers with the accuracy and repeatability needed for demanding applications.

Speak to an expert today to discuss your requirements and find the right compression testing solution.