Compression Testing for Texture Analysis and Materials Testing

What is a compression test?

A compression test is perhaps the most simple and popular test of instrumental texture measurement. In its simplest method, a sample is placed on a flat base/surface and a flat probe/platen is lowered onto the sample to a given force or distance (or the sample is compressed to a percentage of its original height). The sample is deformed and the extent of the deformation and/or the resistance offered by the sample is recorded. Simple compression tests are often termed uniaxial compression which means that the sample is compressed in one direction and is unrestrained in the other two. Either a low or high degree of compression can be chosen but a high degree of compression will usually cause the product to rupture, spread, fracture, or break into pieces.

The probe which comes into contact with the sample, exerting a force on it, usually takes the form of a simple cylindrical probe or a flat plate.  This should be of equal or greater diameter (depending on the extent of deformation).  If the sample has a larger surface area than the diameter of the probe then the probe may puncture or penetrate into the sample.

Typical compression tests on the Texture Analyser

Different testing solutions are needed for multi-particle products which are  irregular in shape and size from piece to piece – a chosen weight or number of pieces is tested ‘in bulk’.

Bulk testing using various attachments on the Texture Analyser

To view a complete set of compression testing probe and fixture options click here

What happens during a compression test?

To see how to perform compression tests using a TA.XTplus Texture Analyser to measure compressibility, compactability, springiness, stress relaxation, crush strength, firmness, elastic recovery etc., watch this video and see typical compression tests in action: 

There is a Texture Analysis test for virtually any physical property. Contact Stable Micro Systems today to learn more about our full range of solutions.

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For more information on how to measure texture, please visit the Texture Analysis Properties section on our website.

The TA.XTplus texture analyser is part of a family of texture analysis instruments and equipment from Stable Micro Systems. An extensive portfolio of specialist attachments is available to measure and analyse the textural properties of a huge range of food products. Our technical experts can also custom design instrument fixtures according to individual specifications.

No-one understands texture analysis like we do!

To discuss your specific test requirements click here...