Compression Testing

Compression testing involves studying a materials behaviour under a crushing load. Specimens are compressed at a range of loads and the deformation recorded.

SMaRT houses two dedicated servo-hydraulic machines for compression testing of metallic materials. The machines incorporate large hydraulic accumulators, allowing for very rapid compression rates. The machines are primarily used for flow stress evaluation at low (10-4 sec-1) and high (50 sec-1) strain rates under high temperature conditions (up to 1250°C). Cylindrical or double cone specimens are usually tested.

Metallic materials subjected to a compressive force initially show a linear relationship between stress and strain (similar to a tensile test). Once the force exceeds the yield point, permanent plastic deformation occurs. The material will continue to deform until it breaks of becomes completely flat. In either case, compression testing will reveal the maximum stress or force experienced as well as the ultimate compressive strength of the material.

SMaRT routinely conducts tests under compression in compliance with the following international and industry standards (working to other methods are available upon request):

ASTM E9 Compression testing of metallic materials at room temperature