compression test

compression test

[kəm′presh·ən ‚test] (engineering) A test to determine compression strength, usually applied to materials of high compression but low tensile strength, in which the specimen is subjected to increasing compressive forces until failure occurs.

compression test

On a specimen of mortar or concrete, a test to determine its compressive strength; in the US, unless otherwise specified, mortar test specimens are 2-in. cubes, and concrete test specimens are cylinders 6 in. in diameter and 12 in. high.

compression test

A maintenance test performed on a reciprocating engine to confirm the ability of the cylinders to hold the designed air pressure. A cylinder will fail a compression test if there is excessive leakage past the rings or any leak from inlet or exhaust valves.