ASTM D575 is a testing standard used to determine the stiffness of rubber materials in compression. ASTM D575 allows rubber suppliers to characterize the stiffness of the material they produce to help downstream manufacturers source the correct material for their components. Data collected from ASTM D575 testing is important for applications that require elastomeric materials subjected to compressive stresses. One wide-ranging application is the sealant industry, as due to its ease of extrusion and flexible nature, rubber is commonly used material for sealants.

Method A applies a predetermined deflection to the cylindrical specimen at which the force is recorded. Alternatively, Method B applies predetermined minor and major forces to the specimen and deflection is measured.

Materials Testing System
Depending on maximum expected forces, ASTM D575 is performed on a single column or dual column universal testing system . This system setup requires a matching load cell and upper and lower platens with diameters larger than the diameter of the specimen. Platens should have rigid connections to the frame and load cell, and must be rated to a load capacity which exceeds forces generated during the test.