A compression test is a behavioral test used to determine how a material will react when compressed, squashed, or reduced in size. A compressive load is introduced to the material while preventing it from distorting or giving in. Fundamental parameters that determine the material’s behavior are measured; the results are used to relate to the specimen’s compressive strength. In the production and electrical field or a quality control laboratory, a compression test is a necessary procedure and contributor to the design process. The test helps to save time and cost in testing and running devices and also helps characterize the material and product strength under applied pressure or crushing loads. Various parameters can be determined from a compression test. Lets know about The Cost Of A Compression Test.
They are listed below.
WHAT DOES A COMPRESSION TEST MEASURE?
It can measure:
- Tensile strength
- Elastic limit
- Yield strength or yield point
- Ultimate strength
- Modulus of elasticity
- Tensile stress
- Tensile strain
- Load at rupture
- Deflection at rupture
- Stiffness.
The understanding of these different parameters, with the values that a specific material gives for each measurement, can be used to determine the suitability of the material for specific applications and whether it can handle specified compressions.
Other uses of the test include:
- Assess the performance of a product e.g., how a tennis ball will displace a load.
- Understand the compressive properties of materials e.g, foam, metals, plastics, and more.
- Ensure that fished products are suitable and manufactured to the highest quality.
- Ensure that products comply with international and industrial standards.
- To aid the general design process.
- To reduce manufacturing costs.
There are various types of compression tests, each suitable for a specific design.
TYPES OF COMPRESSION TESTS
- Adhesion testing: this test measures the strength of a coating to a substrate, that is, how well one bond to the other. When adhesive bonds to an item, many forces come into play, and the effect these forces have on each other needs to be tested before the adhesive product can be used. Many adhesive products like glues, creams, paints, and varnishes require this testing method to determine the properties of the material. Adhesive testing is critical in applications where bond strength measurement is required for research and production. The cosmetic and medical industries are examples.
- Bond strength testing: This involves determining the force required to rupture a bond formed by two adhesive blocks. It compares the shear and body strength of the materials under varying environmental conditions. Medical adhesives, construction adhesives, paper, laminates, and linoleum usually employ this method.
- Crush resistance testing: a compressive load is placed on a material till it deforms, fractures, or breaks completely, and the result is measured. It is applied to various products like glass, bearings, corrugated cardboard, and many more where resistance is a necessity. It is used in packaging design and validation.
- Friction testing: This test is used for a variety of materials, from lubricants to ceramic tiles, to determine the coefficient of friction of the material. The COF is the maximum value of the frictional force divided by the normal force. A low COF indicates a smooth surface and vice-versa.
Compression testing guarantees material quality and durability for a wide range of industries. Performing these tests involves various procedures and machines. The tests can be time and cost-consuming.
COMPRESSION TEST COSTS
- Compression testers in gasoline engines may cost from $20-$50.
- A hydraulic compression tester is used for measurements in concrete, block, and brick materials. It may fall within a price range of $1000-$1500.
- Tensile compression test system: this device functions in tensile stress and strain determinations. It will cost from $1500- $4000.
- Flexural compression testing machine- like the name, the machine measures the flexural strength and compressive strength of building materials. It comes with a digital display but an automatic printer. The price range varies from $3,500-$5000.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a compression test can also be performed on an engine to determine the overall health. It also tells if the engine pressure is sufficient for it to run smoothly and efficiently. For vehicle compression tests performed by a mechanic, the price will be in the range of $100-$300, depending on the model of the vehicle. If a car is emitting a lot of smoke and overheating, or if an adhesive material’s bond strength needs to be determined before bulk production, a compression test will work and give needed results for both situations.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- Must all products take a compression test before they can be standardized industrially?
Yes! The strength, weaknesses, and durability of the material must be accurately determined before it can be used by the general public.
- Can I perform a compression test on my car by myself?
Yes, you can. All you will need is a compression test kit, that can be easily purchased on Amazon and other retailers for about $40. It is the same tool that your mechanic will use when the car is taken for repairs.
