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Compression Testing

A Guide to Compression Testing of Rigid Plastics

Introduction

In the realm of material testing, understanding the mechanical properties of materials is crucial for applications ranging from product design to quality control. For rigid plastics, compression testing is a fundamental evaluation method that helps in determining how a material will behave under loads that compress or crush it. One of the key standards guiding these tests is ASTM D695. In this blog post, we will delve into what ASTM D695 entails, its importance, and how these tests are conducted.

Compression Testing

What is ASTM D695?

ASTM D695 is a standard specification established by ASTM International, which describes the method for conducting compression tests on rigid plastics. This standard is widely used by manufacturers and researchers to measure the compressive properties including modulus, yield strength, and compressive strength.

Why is ASTM D695 Important?

Compression testing under ASTM D695 provides critical data that is essential for several reasons:

  • Product Development: Engineers use the data to select the right materials for their projects that need to withstand compressive forces.
  • Quality Control: Consistent testing helps maintain material standards, ensuring that products perform as expected.
  • Research and Development: Data from these tests can lead to innovations in plastic formulations and enhancements in material performance.

Specimen Preparation

For ASTM D695, the test specimens are typically cylindrical with a diameter of 12.7 mm (0.5 inches) and a height of 25.4 mm (1 inch). These specimens can be machined from larger pieces or molded directly to size. Ensuring the correct dimensions and surface smoothness is crucial for accurate testing.

Testing Procedure

The test involves placing a plastic specimen between two plates of a compression testing machine and applying a load until the specimen fails or deforms to a specific degree. The force applied and the deformation of the specimen are recorded, from which the compressive strength and modulus can be calculated.

  1. Setup: Place the specimen centrally between the plates of a compression testing machine.
  2. Loading: Apply the load at a constant rate until the specimen fails or the desired deformation is achieved.
  3. Data Collection: Record the maximum force and corresponding deformation throughout the test.

Analysis and Interpretation

The key outcomes from the compression test include:

  • Compressive Strength: The maximum compressive stress the specimen can withstand.
  • Modulus of Elasticity: A measure of the material’s stiffness in compression.
  • Yield Strength: The stress at which a material begins to deform plastically.
Compression Testing

Conclusion

ASTM D695 compression testing is an invaluable standard for assessing the compressive properties of rigid plastics. The data obtained from these tests are fundamental in ensuring that plastic materials are suitable for their intended applications, providing safety, functionality, and innovation in product design. For organizations and researchers, adhering to this standard means achieving reliability and consistency in material evaluation. At Kiyo R&D Center & Laboratory, we specialize in providing comprehensive testing services, including ASTM D695 compression testing. If you require assistance with your material testing needs or have any questions about implementing ASTM D695 in your projects, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to ensure your materials meet the highest standards of quality and performance.