ASTM D695 Compression Fixture and Transducer Setup

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This post will help guide you through ASTM D695 Compression Fixture and Transducer setup and operation on your universal testing machine. ASTM D695 specifies the testing of compressive load properties of unreinforced and reinforced rigid plastics. These tests are performed at relatively low rates of straining or loading. Additional information on ASTM D695 can be found here.

More information on our ASTM D695 fixture offerings can be found here.

Grip Use

  1. Ensure the surface of the machine base/compression platen is clean.
  2. Place lower compression fixture on machine base or compression platen.
  3. Slide the upper compression fixture onto the lower compression fixture.
  4. Center the compression fixture on compression platen to avoid off-center loading.
  5. Jog cross-head within 1” of loading bar.
  6. Lift loading bar over eye-end, insert retaining pin and lock with jam nut.
  7. Place test sample on hardened block.
  8. Bring the upper compression fixture close to the sample.
  9. Insert deflection probe.
    1. Lower until probe makes light contact with surface.
    2. Very gently turn thumbscrew to secure deflection probe.
    3. Note: The deflection probe has a 1/4” travel length and should be positioned accordingly.
  10. Perform testing.
  11. Remove tested sample.
  12. When done testing, wipe surfaces with WD40 and a cloth to clean the surface and prevent corrosion.
Diagram of ASTM D695 compression fixture setup on a dual column testing machine
Diagram of ASTM D695 fixture

Changing Hardened Blocks

  1. Remove deflection probe.
  2. Remove compression fixture from machine.
  3. Separate upper and lower compression fixture.
  4. Unscrew the four Phillips head screws securing the hardened block.
  5. Remove the worn/damaged block.
  6. Replace with new hardened block.
  7. Repeat for other block.
  8. Slide upper compression fixture onto lower compression fixture.
  9. Wipe the surface of the hardened block surface with WD40 and a cloth.
Diagram of ASTM D695 upper fixture

Maintenance

  1. Periodically wipe surfaces with WD40 or equivalent.

By: Kevin Weiler | Published on: September 14, 2016 | Last Updated: January 6, 2026

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