Puristustestin

Puristustestin is an Estonian term that refers to a compression test, a fundamental material testing method used to determine how much axial compressive load a specimen can withstand before failure. The test is applied across many materials, including concrete, metals, wood, rocks, and soils, and is essential for assessing structural performance.

During testing, a specimen is placed between two rigid platens of a universal testing machine and loaded at a controlled rate toward compression. Alignment is critical to avoid bending and premature failure. The test records the maximum load reached and the corresponding deformation. For many materials, compressive strength is calculated as the peak load divided by the specimen’s cross-sectional area. Depending on material and standard, end conditions, moisture content, and curing can influence results.

Standards for compression testing are published by international bodies such as ISO, EN, and ASTM. Concrete strength tests commonly use cylinder or cube samples (for example, ASTM C39 for cylindrical concrete). Other materials have analogous procedures in their respective standards. The data obtained guide design, quality control, material selection, and safety assessments.

Limitations of puristustestin include rate effects, temperature sensitivity, and specimen preparation quality. Results are valid only for the specific material, geometry, and test conditions defined by the standard. As a single indicator of in-service performance, compression strength is typically complemented by other mechanical tests.