ASTM D575-91 (2024) PDF

Full title and description

ASTM D575-91(2024) — "Standard Test Methods for Rubber Properties in Compression". This standard specifies two test procedures for determining the compression‑deflection characteristics of rubber compounds (excluding hard rubber and sponge rubber) and provides methods for measuring compressive stress‑deflection behavior useful in material development, comparison, and quality control.

Abstract

This short standard defines Method A (compression test at specified deflection) and Method B (compression test at specified force) for characterizing how elastomeric materials respond to compressive loading (stress at specified strains, compression modulus, stress relaxation, hysteresis and permanent set). Results support selection and design of components such as mounts, gaskets, bushings and vibration isolators.

General information

• Status: Active — reapproved in 2024 (reapproval edition R24).
• Publication date: Listed as issued/reissued in 2024 (publication listings show 01 May 2024; ASTM record shows reapproval/update 24 June 2024).
• Publisher: ASTM International.
• ICS / categories: 83.060 (Rubber).
• Edition / version: Designation D575-91(2024) — original designation 1991, reapproved (R24) edition shown for 2024.
• Number of pages: 4 pages (short-method standard).

Scope

These test methods cover two procedures to determine compression‑deflection characteristics of rubber compounds other than those normally classified as hard rubber or sponge rubber. The standard specifies specimen preparation, apparatus requirements, test conditions (force or deflection control), and reporting conventions; SI units are the standard. It does not address all safety concerns associated with testing.

Key topics and requirements

• Two prescribed test procedures: Method A — compression at specified deflection; Method B — compression at specified force.
• Determination of compressive stress at given strains and compression modulus (e.g., stress at 10 %, 20 %, 30 % deflection as applicable).
• Measurement and reporting of stress‑relaxation behavior and hysteresis (loading/unloading differences) where applicable.
• Specimen dimensions, test speed/cycle, temperature control and conditioning requirements to ensure repeatable results.
• Required test equipment characteristics and verification practices (compatible with standard force‑verification practices).

Typical use and users

Used by rubber technologists, materials engineers, R&D laboratories, quality control teams and test laboratories to compare stiffness and compressive behavior of elastomers, to validate material selection for load‑bearing or vibration isolation components, and to support supplier specifications and acceptance testing. Laboratories performing this test typically require a compression/tensile testing frame and fixtures configured to ASTM requirements.

Related standards

Commonly referenced and complementary standards include ASTM D395 (Standard Test Methods for Rubber Property — Compression Set) for permanent set measurements and ASTM E4 (Standard Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines) for force verification of testing equipment; other ASTM and ISO test methods for rubber physical properties are often used alongside D575.

Keywords

rubber; elastomer; compression; compression‑deflection; compressive stress; modulus; deflection; stress relaxation; hysteresis; compression test.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM D575-91(2024) is a short ASTM test standard that defines two test methods for measuring compression‑deflection properties of rubber compounds (not including hard or sponge rubber).

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers specimen preparation, two test procedures (specified deflection and specified force), test apparatus and conditions, and reporting of compression stress‑deflection results, stress relaxation and related behaviors.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Materials and design engineers, rubber compounders, QA/QC labs, and independent testing laboratories use D575 to characterize compressive stiffness and performance for seals, mounts, gaskets and other elastomeric components.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: It is current — the designation remains D575-91 with a 2024 reapproval/retention (R24). Publication/listing dates in 2024 are shown for the reapproved edition. Consult ASTM or your standards subscription for the absolute official record.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: D575 is one of several ASTM methods addressing rubber mechanical properties; it is commonly used alongside ASTM D395 (compression set) and other ASTM/ISO elastomer test methods to provide a comprehensive characterization of rubber performance.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Compression, compression‑deflection, compressive stress, modulus, elastomer, deflection, stress relaxation, hysteresis, permanent set.