Compression testing - measuring the compressive strength of a box

What is a compression test?

Compression testing is one of the widely used tests in the packaging industry and helps to measure the compressive strength of various types of boxes such as cartons, corrugated boxes, fibreboard, single-ply boards, and many more. It is a platform for performing tests that provides a graphical representation of deformation forces and compression. This is a test method to check the strength of crates, wooden boxes, containers, corrugated boxes designed with good fibreboard material.

How to test compressive strength?

Usually, manufacturers use industrial packaging containers and other sturdy boxes such as tubs, barrels. Drums etc also require compression testing. Additionally, this type of testing is also performed on various types of packaging components to measure the strength of the material. This test can be performed in a test laboratory with the help of a very special type of testing equipment called a compression Tester. Helps provide controlled compressive forces on specimens for compression testing of heavy boxes and containers.

SOPs for performing compression testing

Standard methods for performing compression testing are provided by various nationally and internationally recognized organizations such as ASTM, BIS, ISO, and many more. To test against a standard, place the test sample between two parallel plates. The plates are designed in such a way that they are kept parallel to each other in order to hold the specimen tightly to avoid slipping of the specimen. Testing can be performed on full or empty boxes. But never forget that it is necessary to maintain the conditions of standard pressure at a certain speed. The test results compress the specimen and help to measure the peak load during the significant deformation phase of the specimen deformation. This test helps measure the capacity of a container to protect the materials kept inside the box from some type of external damage.