What is Compression Set?

Compression Set is the tendency of a rubber to lose its memory when under stress, keeping the deformed shape and not springing back to its original shape. This can cause seals and gaskets to leak after time.

How is Compression Set tested?

The thickness of rubber test discs is measured, and the specimens are clamped in a test fixture that compresses the discs by about 75%. The fixture, and the specimens, are placed in an over to accelerate the aging process. After a specified period of time, the specimens are removed from the fixture, and allowed to cool and relax for 30 minutes. The new thickness is measured, and the difference between the initial and the final thickness is used to calculate the Compression Set, expressed as the percentage of thickness lost.

Should you need additional information about CRT Laboratories' Compression Set testing capabilities please contact us via our RFQ Form or call us at (714) 283-2032. You may fax a request for a proposal at (714) 283-1365.