Mechanical testing services

Mechanical tests are performed to assess the behavior of materials under specific types of stress, such as tensile, compression, and shear stress. Measurlabs offers accredited mechanical testing services for various materials, including plastics, polymers, metals, cardboard, and textiles.

Mechanical testing
...and more than 400 other happy clients
  • Fast turnaround times
  • Personal service from method experts
  • Competitive prices
  • Result accuracy guarantee

Testing standards, methods, and equipment

Mechanical tests are generally performed according to internationally recognized, material-specific standards, which provide an objective framework for assessing the quality of a product. Some of the standardization organizations on whose methods we base our testing catalog include ISO, DIN, ASTM, EN, and TAPPI. 

The most common piece of equipment used in mechanical testing is the universal tester, which can apply various types of pressure on the test specimen, enabling the determination of tensile strength, compression strength, and other fundamental properties. Standard-specific equipment is also commonly used.

Measurlabs offers both standardized and custom mechanical tests for product development and quality assurance. If you wish to discuss the testing options most appropriate for your product or material, please contact us using the form at the bottom of the page.

Plastic mechanical testing

Mechanical testing of polymers, plastics, and composites

The mechanical properties of polymer-based materials largely dictate what the material can be used for. If, for example, a durable packaging material is needed, the impact, compression, and tensile strength need to be sufficient. Resistance to deformation in elevated temperatures should also be assessed if the material is to be used in warm surroundings. 

Examples of standardized mechanical tests for plastics include tensile testing by ISO 527-2, heat deflection temperature measurement by ISO 75, and determination of flexural properties by ISO 178. In addition to traditional fossil-based plastics, the tests we offer are suitable for biobased alternatives.

Cardboard mechanical testing

Mechanical tests for paper and cardboard

Mechanical testing is often used to assess the suitability of paper and cardboard for use as packaging materials. Properties to be tested include compression strength, puncture resistance, tensile strength, and tearing resistance, among others. Many of the testing methods are based on EN, ISO, or TAPPI standards.

If paper or board is used as a food contact material, a more comprehensive range of tests is required. In addition to mechanical testing, physical and chemical tests should be performed to ensure that the material has appropriate barrier properties and is chemically safe to come into contact with food.

Testing of textiles’ mechanical properties

Mechanical testing of textiles is aimed at ensuring fabric quality and durability during use. Typical tests assess properties like tear resistance, abrasion resistance, and seam strength. In addition to EN and ISO standards, AATCC standards are common in textile testing. Both finished fabrics and their components (fibers and yarns) can be tested.

The general EU testing requirements for textiles are reasonably lenient, but obtaining an environmental label, such as the EU Ecolabel, is only possible if the textile is demonstrably durable. Measurlabs offers the required mechanical tests to demonstrate fabric durability.

Ville Roininen

Questions?

Mechanical testing expert Ville Roininen is happy to help.

Our experts are at your service

When you order mechanical testing services from Measurlabs, we will assign a dedicated testing expert to oversee your project and answer any questions you may have. You will also benefit from a results accuracy guarantee, clear reporting, and competitive pricing and turnaround times.

Get a quote

Fill in the form, and we'll reply in one business day.

Answering the following questions helps us prepare an offer for you faster:

  • How many samples do you have and what is the sample material?
  • Do you have a recurring need for these tests? If yes, how often and for how many samples at a time?

Have questions or need help? Email us at or call +358 50 336 6128.