Abstract: In recent years more than 1500 tests on compresslve properties of sheets and plates and shapes specimen have been carried out in our laboratory at room temperature.The self-designed test device and test methods derived from a lot of experimental investigations are presented in this paper.By using these new test device and methods,which are suitable for ferrous metal,non-ferrous metals and composite materials test,the force of kinetic friction can be deducted during test process.Therefore,more accurate test results can be obtained.Now metal-foils and metal-sheets and metal-plates for the thickness equal to or greater than 0.064mm and plates of unidirectional or laminated composite materials as well as compressive properties of shapes with direct or indirect methods can be tested successfully in our laboratory.These new test device and methods have been verified in practice,and may be recommended for engineering application.