Compressive Strength

Test of Tiles
Learn everything you need to know about compressive strength
testing of tiles, from the procedure to interpreting results.

by Sriparna Paul
Introduction

Tiles' Role Importance Benefits

Tiles play an essential role in modern The compressive strength test is critical to The benefits of testing include avoiding
buildings and structures. They are used in ensure that tiles can withstand the weight tile breakage, cracks, and damage, as well
floors, walls, and roofs in various and stress of a building's structure and last as lowering maintenance costs.
industries and even production floors. for many years.
Explanation of Compressive Strength Test
Types of Loading

The test can use two methods of loading: axial, where the load
is applied perpendicularly to the tile's face, or diametric, where
the tile is loaded on its edge.

1 2 3

Definition Measurement Units

The compressive strength test measures the maximum amount The results of the compressive strength test are expressed in
of load a tile sample can withstand before failure. PSI, Mega Pascals, and Newtons per square millimeter.
Test Procedure
Step 1 Step 2 Step 3

Cut the tile sample from the
production line, making sure that
it's large enough to fit the
compression machine's plate.
Place the tile into a compression
machine and switch on the
equipment.
Apply the load gradually and
record the corresponding
deformation of the tile. Keep
increasing the load until the tile
breaks.

Step 4

Record the maximum load and calculate the compressive strength.

Interpreting the Test Results

Minimum Limits Mean and Range

The compressive strength must be equal or greater than Calculate the mean compressive strength and range of
the minimum limit provided in the relevant standard to be values for different samples. This helps ensure that every
acceptable. tile produced is equal in quality.
Factors that Affect Compressive Strength
Material
Different materials have different
compressive strengths. For example,
porcelain tiles have typically higher
compressive strength than ceramic tiles.
Temperature
The temperature during the production
process and installation can affect the tile's
compressive strength. High temperatures can
result in tile warping, which can impact the
strength of the tile.
Thickness
Thin tiles tend to have lower compressive
strength than thicker tiles due to their lower
mass and material properties.
Uses of Compressive Strength Test
in Tile Industry
1 Improving Product Quality 2 Customer Confidence

The test helps identify substandard The test results can be provided to
tiles and ensures that production customers, providing peace of
processes meet expected standards. mind that a tile can withstand a
particular stress.

3 Product Development

The test can be used to develop new tiles with higher compressive strengths, which
can offer new applications and markets.
Conclusion
1 Final Thoughts

The compressive strength test is crucial in ensuring the durability of tiles in the construction industry.

2 Importance of Quality Control

The compressive strength test is a tried and tested method to identify substandard tiles and maintain production quality
control.

3 Finding More Information

If you want to learn more about the application of compressive strength tests, consult reputable organizations like ASTM,
ISO, and EN.