Compression Fixtures for Rigid Samples | NextGen Material Testing

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Standards

Precision Compression Test Fixtures for NG-EML and SHM Series UTMs

Compression Fixtures for Axial Load Testing of Rigid Samples

NextGen’s compression fixtures are designed for high-accuracy compression testing of a range of materials including metals, polymers, elastomers, foams, composites, and construction materials. These fixtures are engineered for integration with NG-EML and SHM series Universal Testing Machines, supporting vertical load application and precise specimen alignment.

The compression fixtures are compatible with major international testing standards, including:

ASTM D695 (Compressive Properties of Plastics)
ISO 604 (Compressive Properties of Plastics)
ASTM E9 (Compression Testing of Metallic Materials)
GB/T 14485 (Compressive Properties of Foamed Plastics)

Each fixture offers secure load application, optimized force distribution, and high rigidity for accurate data collection and repeatability.

Compression Fixture Models

Seven fixtures cover compression, and they divide first by force and then by what the specimen is. The first three are the general-purpose platen series, offered in Φ100, Φ150 and Φ7.9″ (200 mm). This one starts the range at 20 kN.

Model NGA204

Compression Fixture Series

The NGA204 Compression Fixture Series is engineered for precise compression testing of various materials including concrete, metal, plastic, and composites. With a maximum load capacity of 20 kN, the series includes multiple models - NGA204A, NGA204B, NGA204C, and NGA204E - each designed for different specimen sizes and testing requirements. All models are compatible with Ø10 mm pin connections and operate reliably under ambient conditions. Options with and without sphere-seated platens are available to suit different testing standards. Suited to both laboratory and industrial use, these fixtures provide stable, repeatable performance for compressive strength evaluation.

NextGen Compression fixture - NGA204 - size

Application: Compression tests for concrete, metal, plastic, and composite materials.
Models: NGA204A, NGA204B, NGA204C, NGA204E.
Maximum Capacity: Up to 20 kN load.
Diameter Options: Φ3.9″ (100 mm) (A, E), Φ5.9″ (150 mm) (B), Φ7.9″ (200 mm) (C).
Connection: Ø10 mm pin (upper and lower), compatible with universal testing machines.
Heights: Upper Grip: 65 mm (A, B, C), 60 mm (E); Lower Grip: 35 mm (A, B, C), 60 mm (E).
Widths: 3.9″ (100 mm) (A, E), 5.9″ (150 mm) (B), 7.9″ (200 mm) (C).
Working Temperature: Ambient.
Grip Weights: Vary by model; see detailed table below.
Special Features: Model NGA204E includes a sphere-seated lower platen for better alignment.
Note: Digital indicator is excluded.

**Table 1.** NGA204 Compression Fixture Series
Model	NGA204A	NGA204B	NGA204C	NGA204E
Application	Compression test for concrete, metal, plastic, composite etc.
Diameter	Φ3.9″ (100 mm)	Φ5.9″ (150 mm)	Φ7.9″ (200 mm)	Φ3.9″ (100 mm)
Maximum Force	≤ 20 kN
Upper Grip Weight	4 lbs (1.8 kg)	8.4 lbs (3.8 kg)	14 lbs (6.5 kg)	3.5 lbs (1.6 kg)
Lower Grip Weight	3.1 lbs (1.4 kg)	6 lbs (2.7 kg)	11 lbs (4.8 kg)	3.1 lbs (1.4 kg)
Working Temp.	Ambient
Connection	Ø10 mm pin (upper and lower)
Upper Grip Height (A)	65 mm	65 mm	65 mm	60 mm
Lower Grip Height (B)	35 mm	35 mm	35 mm	60 mm
Width (C)	3.9″ (100 mm)	5.9″ (150 mm)	7.9″ (200 mm)	3.9″ (100 mm)
Sphere Seated	No	No	No	Yes
Support Roller	R2, R5 (custom options available)

The same three platen diameters at 100 kN, for metal and composite parts that carry more load than the 20 kN fixture will take.

Model NGA105

Compression Fixture Series

The NGA105 Compression Fixture Series is built for high-force compression testing of metals, composites, and other industrial components. With a force capacity of up to 100 kN, this series includes three heavy-duty models - NGA105A, NGA105B, and NGA105C - tailored for specimens ranging from Φ3.9″ (100 mm) to Φ7.9″ (200 mm) in diameter. All models feature Ø18 mm pin connections and operate at ambient conditions. The fixtures are equipped with sphere-seated platens to improve alignment under load. Models NGA105B and NGA105C also support optional digital indicator integration for advanced measurement capabilities.

NextGen Compression fixture - NGA105 - size

Application: Compression tests for metal, composite, and structural components.
Models: NGA105A, NGA105B, NGA105C.
Maximum Capacity: Up to 100 kN load.
Diameter Options: Φ3.9″ (100 mm), Φ5.9″ (150 mm), and Φ7.9″ (200 mm).
Connection: Ø18 mm pin (upper and lower), compatible with high-load universal testing machines.
Heights: Upper Grip: 70 - 90 mm; Lower Grip: 60 - 66 mm depending on the model.
Widths: 3.9″ (100 mm) (A), 5.9″ (150 mm) (B), 7.9″ (200 mm) (C).
Sphere Seated: Yes (included in all models).
Working Temperature: Ambient.
Note: NGA105B and NGA105C can be equipped with an optional digital indicator.

**Table 2.** NGA105 Compression Fixture Series
Model	NGA105A	NGA105B	NGA105C
Application	Compression test for metal, composite and other components.
Diameter	Φ3.9″ (100 mm)	Φ5.9″ (150 mm)	Φ7.9″ (200 mm)
Maximum Force	≤ 100 kN
Upper Grip Weight	5.3 lbs (2.4 kg)	11 lbs (5.1 kg)	17 lbs (7.8 kg)
Lower Grip Weight	6.2 lbs (2.8 kg)	11 lbs (5.0 kg)	17 lbs (7.6 kg)
Working Temp.	Ambient
Connection	Ø18 mm pin (upper and lower)
Upper Grip Height (A)	70 mm	90 mm	90 mm
Lower Grip Height (B)	60 mm	66 mm	60 mm
Width (C)	3.9″ (100 mm)	5.9″ (150 mm)	7.9″ (200 mm)
Sphere Seated	Yes

The top of the platen series, 300 kN, again in all three diameters.

Model NGA305

Compression Fixture Series

The NGA305 Compression Fixture Series is a heavy-duty solution for high-force compression testing of metals, composites, and other structural materials. With a maximum load capacity of up to 300 kN, these fixtures are suited for demanding industrial and research environments. The series includes three models - NGA305A, NGA305B, and NGA305C - offering platen diameters of Φ3.9″ (100 mm), Φ5.9″ (150 mm), and Φ7.9″ (200 mm), respectively. All models feature Ø28 mm pin connections and sphere-seated platens for precise alignment under load. Additionally, NGA305B and NGA305C are compatible with optional digital indicators for deformation measurement.

NextGen Compression fixture - NGA305 - size

Application: Compression tests for metal, composite, and structural components.
Models: NGA305A, NGA305B, NGA305C.
Maximum Capacity: Up to 300 kN load.
Diameter Options: Φ3.9″ (100 mm), Φ5.9″ (150 mm), Φ7.9″ (200 mm).
Connection: Ø28 mm pin (upper and lower), compatible with high-load universal testing machines.
Heights: Upper Grip: 86 - 116 mm; Lower Grip: 56 - 72 mm depending on model.
Widths: 3.9″ (100 mm) (A), 5.9″ (150 mm) (B), 7.9″ (200 mm) (C).
Sphere Seated: Yes (included on all models).
Working Temperature: Ambient.
Note: NGA305B and NGA305C can be equipped with an optional digital indicator.

**Table 3.** NGA305 Compression Fixture Series
Model	NGA305A	NGA305B	NGA305C
Application	Compression test for metal, composite and other components.
Diameter	Φ3.9″ (100 mm)	Φ5.9″ (150 mm)	Φ7.9″ (200 mm)
Maximum Force	≤ 300 kN
Upper Grip Weight	8.8 lbs (4.0 kg)	16 lbs (7.1 kg)	22 lbs (9.8 kg)
Lower Grip Weight	6.8 lbs (3.1 kg)	12 lbs (5.4 kg)	18 lbs (8.1 kg)
Working Temp.	Ambient
Connection	Ø28 mm pin (upper and lower)
Upper Grip Height (A)	86 mm	4.5″ (115 mm)	4.6″ (116 mm)
Lower Grip Height (B)	68 mm	56 mm	72 mm
Width (C)	3.9″ (100 mm)	5.9″ (150 mm)	7.9″ (200 mm)
Sphere Seated	Yes

From here the fixtures stop being general. Rigid foam is not tested on a round platen but on a square one, and this fixture offers 7.9 × 7.9″ (200 x 200 mm) and 11.8 × 11.8″ (300 x 300 mm) at 20 kN.

Model NGB204

Compression Fixture Series

The NGB204 Compression Fixture Series is engineered specifically for the compression testing of rigid foam materials. Available in two models - NGB204A and NGB204B - this fixture supports specimen sizes up to 11.8 × 11.8″ (300 × 300 mm) and accommodates test forces up to 20 kN. Both models feature a flat platen design without sphere seating and are suitable for precise, stable compression testing under ambient conditions. Their large surface area and rigid construction make the NGB204 series suited to applications in insulation, packaging, and structural foam testing.

NextGen Compression fixture - NGB204 - size

Application: Compression tests for rigid foam materials.
Models: NGB204A and NGB204B.
Maximum Capacity: Up to 20 kN load.
Specimen Sizes: 7.9 × 7.9″ (200 × 200 mm) (A), 11.8 × 11.8″ (300 × 300 mm) (B).
Connection: Ø10 mm pin (upper and lower), suitable for standard testing frames.
Heights: 62 mm (upper and lower grips for both models).
Widths: 7.9″ (200 mm) (A), 11.8″ (300 mm) (B).
Sphere Seated: Not included.
Working Temperature: Ambient.
Note: Optional digital indicator can be equipped.

**Table 4.** NGB204 Compression Fixture for Rigid Foam
Model	NGB204A	NGB204B
Application	Compression for rigid foam
Specimen Size (Diameter)	7.9 × 7.9″ (200 × 200 mm)	11.8 × 11.8″ (300 × 300 mm)
Maximum Force Capacity	≤ 20 kN	≤ 20 kN
Upper Grip Weight	15 lbs (6.6 kg)	32 lbs (14.5 kg)
Lower Grip Weight	15 lbs (6.6 kg)	32 lbs (14.5 kg)
Working Temperature	Ambient
Connection Type	Ø10 mm pin (upper and lower)
Upper Grip Height (A)	62 mm	62 mm
Lower Grip Height (B)	62 mm	62 mm
Width (C)	7.9″ (200 mm)	11.8″ (300 mm)
Sphere Seated	No

Soft foam needs less force and a defined indenter rather than a platen: 2 kN through a Φ7.9″ (200 mm) head.

Model NGC203A

Compression Fixture

The NGC203A Compression Fixture is built for low-force compression testing of foam materials, particularly those requiring large-area support during loading. It features a Φ7.9″ (200 mm) indenter and a 15.4 × 15.4″ (390 × 390 mm) support plate to distribute load evenly across the specimen. This setup is suited to testing large or deformable foam components under low compressive forces. The fixture connects via standard Ø10 mm pins and operates under ambient laboratory conditions. Its heavy-duty lower grip ensures maximum stability during testing.

**Table 5.** NGC203A Compression Fixture for Foam
Parameter	Specification
Application	Compression test for foam
Indenter Diameter	Φ7.9″ (200 mm)
Support Plate	15.4″ (390 mm) × 15.4″ (390 mm)
Maximum Force Capacity	≤ 2 kN
Upper Grip Weight	7.7 lbs (3.5 kg)
Lower Grip Weight	63 lbs (28.6 kg)
Working Temperature	Ambient
Connection Type	Ø10 mm pin (upper and lower)
Upper Grip Height (A)	90 mm
Lower Grip Height (B)	70 mm
Upper Grip Width (C)	7.9″ (200 mm)
Lower Grip Width (D)	15.4″ (390 mm)

NextGen Compression fixture - NGC203A - size

Dimensions A, B, C and D used in Table 5.

Sponge is softer still, and the fixture for it works at the same 2 kN but with its own contact geometry.

Model NGC203B

Compression Fixture

The NGC203B Compression Fixture is specifically designed for low-force compression testing of sponge and similar soft materials. With a maximum force capacity of 2 kN, this fixture ensures reliable testing conditions for highly deformable specimens. It features a wide platen setup (up to 12.6″ (320 mm)) and stable construction for accurate load application. The system connects via standard Ø10 mm pins and is suitable for universal testing machines operating in ambient environments.

**Table 6.** NGC203B Compression Fixture for Sponge
Parameter	Specification
Application	Compression test for sponge
Maximum Force Capacity	≤ 2 kN
Upper Grip Weight	0.8 kg
Lower Grip Weight	9 lbs (4.1 kg)
Working Temperature	Ambient
Connection Type	Ø10 mm pin (upper and lower)
Upper Grip Height (A)	85 mm
Lower Grip Height (B)	90 mm
Upper Grip Width (C)	11.8″ (300 mm)
Lower Grip Width (D)	12.6″ (320 mm)

Dimensions A, B, C and D used in Table 6.

The last fixture returns to 300 kN and is dedicated to concrete, where the specimen is heavy and the platen has to be flat under full load.

Model NGA305B

Compression Fixture

The NGA305B Compression Fixture is a high-capacity setup designed for compression testing of concrete and other dense, rigid materials. With a load capacity of up to 300 kN and a heavy-duty platen width of 8.7″ (220 mm), this fixture is suitable for structural material testing under heavy loads. It features Ø28 mm pin connections and a stable, heavy-duty design to ensure accurate force application. Suited to industrial testing environments, NGA305B delivers repeatable performance for strength verification of construction-grade materials.

**Table 7.** NGA305B Compression Fixture for Concrete
Parameter	Specification
Application	Compression test for concrete
Maximum Force Capacity	≤ 300 kN
Upper Grip Weight	23 lbs (10.3 kg)
Lower Grip Weight	15 lbs (7.0 kg)
Working Temperature	Ambient
Connection Type	Ø28 mm pin (upper and lower)
Upper Grip Height (A)	5.4″ (137 mm)
Lower Grip Height (B)	72.5 mm
Width (C)	8.7″ (220 mm)

NextGen’s compression fixture lineup is built to deliver consistent results across multiple materials and test environments. From standard plastics testing to advanced composite characterization, these tools meet stringent ISO and ASTM requirements. Contact NextGen Material Testing, Inc. to request a quote or receive guidance in selecting the optimal fixture for your UTM system.

For Laboratories

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FAQs

Which Compression Fixture Series and Platen Size Suit My Tests?

Choose the series by force and the platen by specimen size. The general-purpose platens come in three series rated to 20 kN, 100 kN and 300 kN (67,443 lbf), and each series offers Ø100, Ø150 and Ø200 mm platens.

The series also sets the connection to your frame: the 20 kN platens mount on Ø10 mm pins, the 100 kN platens on Ø18 mm pins and the 300 kN platens on Ø28 mm pins. All are built for NG-EML and SHM series universal testing machines.

Four more fixtures are set up for particular specimens: square platens for rigid foam, a 2 kN indenter for soft foam, a 2 kN fixture for sponge and a 300 kN fixture for concrete.

Describe your specimens and the force you expect in a request for a quote, and we will recommend the series and platen size.

Which Plastics and Metals Standards Do the Compression Fixtures Support?

The fixtures are compatible with ASTM D695 and ISO 604 for the compressive properties of plastics, and with ASTM E9 for compression testing of metallic materials at room temperature.

The plastics methods compress a small prism or cylinder between parallel faces and report compressive strength and modulus. ASTM E9 sets the specimen length in relation to its diameter so that it does not buckle, and the result then describes the material rather than the stability of the specimen.

Modulus needs the deformation measured close to the specimen, so the Ø150 and Ø200 mm platens of the 100 kN and 300 kN series accept an optional digital indicator for deformation measurement.

When Do the Compression Fixtures Need a Sphere-Seated Platen?

Use a sphere-seated platen when the end faces of a rigid specimen may not be perfectly parallel. The seat lets the platen tilt to meet the specimen, so the load spreads across the whole face instead of starting on one edge, where the specimen would fail early.

All platens in the 100 kN and 300 kN series are sphere-seated. In the 20 kN series the three standard platens are fixed, and a fourth Ø100 mm model adds a sphere-seated lower platen, because different testing standards call for different platen arrangements.

Center the specimen on the platen in either case, since a spherical seat corrects a small angle between the faces but not an off-center load.

How Are Rigid Foam Boards Tested on the Compression Fixtures?

Rigid foam is tested on square flat platens rather than round ones. We supply two sizes, 200 × 200 mm and 300 × 300 mm, both rated to 20 kN (4,496 lbf), for insulation, packaging and structural foam.

The platens are fixed, without a spherical seat, and they cover the whole face of the specimen. Foam crushes cell by cell, so a platen smaller than the specimen would indent it instead of compressing it evenly.

An optional digital indicator measures the deformation during the test, which matters because the compressive properties of foam are usually reported at yield or at a set deformation.

Both sizes mount on Ø10 mm pins, and each half weighs 6.6 kg for the 200 mm size and 14.5 kg for the 300 mm size.

Which Compression Fixtures Are Used for Soft Foam and Sponge?

We supply two fixtures for them, both rated to 2 kN (450 lbf), since soft foam and sponge need far less force than rigid samples.

Soft foam is loaded through a defined indenter rather than a full platen. The foam fixture presses a Ø200 mm indenter into a specimen resting on a 390 × 390 mm support plate, which suits large or deformable foam components, and its heavy 28.6 kg lower grip keeps the plate steady.

Sponge is softer still, and its fixture uses wide platens instead: 300 mm at the top and 320 mm at the bottom. Both fixtures mount on Ø10 mm pins. Pair either one with a low-capacity load cell, so readings on soft material stay within its verified range.

Which Compression Fixture Is Built for Concrete Specimens?

A dedicated 300 kN fixture handles concrete and other dense, rigid materials, with a heavy-duty platen 220 mm wide and Ø28 mm pin connections. It is suited to industrial laboratories that verify the strength of construction-grade materials.

Concrete is specified by its compressive strength, so this test is the routine acceptance check on a mix. The specimen is heavy and fails at high force, and the platen has to stay flat under the full load, because a platen that bends spreads the stress unevenly over the specimen face and lowers the result.

The upper half weighs 10.3 kg (23 lbs) and the lower half 7.0 kg (15 lbs). For concrete beams in bending, see our flexure fixtures for large and brittle specimens.

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