Test standards Alpine supports: ASTM D575, ASTM D695, ISO 3384, ISO 604
Compression testing evaluates how materials behave under compressive load. This is a critical consideration for applications where sealing force, structural integrity, or deformation under pressure matters. At Alpine Polytech, we perform a range of compression methods on plastics, elastomers, and composites to help customers understand both fundamental performance and specific behaviors before or after environmental exposure.
Standard compression tests involve applying a compressive strain to a specimen and measuring its deflection or load at defined intervals. This data helps determine stiffness and deformation characteristics. Typically, before compression testing, the sample undergoes aging in a liquid or gas to simulate the chemical exposures that materials will be exposed to in their operation services. Alpine is also capable of providing volumetric compression and bulk modulus tests to provide data for input into finite element analysis (FEA) models.
Video demonstrating compression of rubber
Video demonstrating different plastic compression scenarios
Alpine also offers our In-Situ capabilities for compression testing, providing real time exposure data that you can’t get anywhere else. Whether you’re qualifying new elastomers, plastics, or composite materials, Alpine provides precise compression testing according to internationally recognized standards as well as bespoke methods customized by for our clients. Our results help customers assess mechanical integrity across a wide range of service conditions.
Alpine Expanded Capabilities
Test conditions we support:
- In-Situ Testing options available
- Custom specimen preparation
- Instron capabilities up to 135,000 lbs.
- Aging in acids, bases, brines, hydrocarbons, and extreme pressure
- Cryogenic to 400°C aging capabilities
- Seven Instron machines to increase workflow efficiency and cost effectiveness
- Instron coolers and ovens for temperatures from to 300°C on the machine
Alpine offers compression testing with custom specimen preparation to evaluate material and seal performance under realistic service conditions. Our Instron systems, capable of up to 135,000 lbs. of force, are equipped with coolers and ovens for on-machine testing up to 300°C, while additional aging capabilities from cryogenic to 400°C are available for pre- and post-test evaluations in acids, bases, brines, hydrocarbons, and under extreme pressures. In-situ compression testing options allow properties to be measured while samples remain under exposure conditions, providing representative data for design and qualification
Testing Details
The compression test process begins by preparing cylindrical or disc samples according to test specifications. Prior to testing, specimens are often aged in liquids, gases, or at elevated temperatures to simulate service environments. This aging step helps replicate chemical and thermal exposure the material may face in the field, revealing how compression properties shift over time.
Once prepared, the specimen is placed between compression plates, and a compressive strain is applied at a controlled rate. The system measures force and deformation throughout the test, providing data on stiffness, deflection, and set. For certain applications, volumetric compression or bulk modulus is calculated, which is a key input for FEA modeling. Alpine Polytech performs compression tests across a range of materials, including elastomers, plastics, and composites.
Standard methods include ASTM D575 (rubber), ASTM D695 (rigid plastics), ISO 3384 (rubbers), and ISO 604 (plastics).