Compression test
Definition: The compression test is a mechanical testing method for determining the behaviour of a material under axial compressive loading. A cylindrical or prismatic specimen is loaded between two compression platens up to a defined load or until failure. The method is standardised, among others, in DIN EN ISO 6892-1 (for metals, complementing the tensile test).
Practical relevance: The properties determined are compressive strength, modulus of elasticity and plastic compression behaviour. The compression test is particularly relevant for brittle materials such as cast iron, ceramics or concrete, where the compressive strength is considerably higher than the tensile strength. Influencing factors are specimen geometry, friction at the compression platens and testing speed.
Decision-making perspectives:
- Technical decision-makers: Design of compression-loaded components and assessment of failure mechanisms.
- Purchasing/project management: Specification of required minimum compressive strengths in material specifications.
- Science: Analysis of non-linear deformation mechanisms and material models.
- Insurance/law: Documented verification of mechanical properties in cases of structural failure.
Typical testing or verification methods: Universal testing machine with compression platens, strain measurement, evaluation of stress-strain curves.
FAQ:
- When is a compression test more appropriate than a tensile test?
- For brittle materials or components that are predominantly subjected to compression, the compression test provides more realistic characteristic values.
