The SMTL are able to perform compression and tensile testing of medical devices.

Tensile Testing

Tensile testing determines how materials will react to forces being applied under tension.

The SMTL routinely tensile medical devices such as:

• Force at break of medical gloves

• Tensile performance of DVT garments

• Decay testing of elastomeric bandages

• Adhesion peel tests on adhesive wound dressings

Compression Testing

A compression test determines the behaviour of materials under crushing loads.

The specimen is compressed and deformation at various loads is recorded. Compressive stress and strain are calculated and usually plotted as a stress-strain diagram which can be used to determine various features such as elastic limit, proportional limit, yield point, yield strength and compressive strength.

The SMTL routinely compression test medical devices such as:

• Vaginal Speculum

• Plaster Casts

• Surgical Instruments

If you wish to commission tensile or compression testing, then contact the SMTL:

Surgical Materials Testing Laboratory, Princess of Wales Hospital, Coity Road, Bridgend, UK, CF31 1RQ.

Tel: +44 (0) 1656 752820
Email: smtl.physical@wales.nhs.uk