Determination of Tensile Properties

ASTM D 2370

Tensile Tester

Scope and Field of Application

This method covers the determination of the elongation, tensile strength and stiffness (modulus of elasticity) of coatings when tested as free films. These values are of particular importance for coatings which are intended for application to substrates which lack dimensional stability. Example include:-

The tensile testing methods described on this page are all carried out using detached films. If your test coatings are intended for application to metallic substrates you may wish to consider cupping or flexibility tests which can be carried out on coatings applied to substrates.

There is no pass/fail criteria defined in the standard. This is a matter of agreement between the parties concerned.

The actual standard is a copyright-protected document and we are not able to provide you with copies. If required however, you can easily obtain copies from the American Society for Testing and Materials.

 

Summary of Method

We carry out these determinations using an Instron Type 1026 tensile tester. This incorporates a highly sensitive electronic load weighing system with load cells employing strain gauges to detect the load applied to the specimen under test. The test specimen is clamped between two grips one of which is attached to a load cell in a moving crosshead while the other grip is fixed to the base of the tester. The crosshead is attached to two vertically mounted screws which are rotated using a synchronous motor-gearbox assembly. The load applied to the test specimen and the distance travelled by the crosshead are both displayed on a chart recorder.

The detached test film is condition for 24 hours under specified temperature and humidity conditions. Test specimens are cut from the film and their dimensions are recorded. A specimen is then clamped between the grips and elongated until it ruptures. The rate of elongation is between 5 and 100 percent per minute, the actual value being agreed between interested parties.

The standard describes how the stress-strain curve is evaluated to determine elongation, tensile strength and stiffness.

 

Sample Requirements

If you are able to supply samples in the form of detached films, we require 300 x 300 mm for each coating to be tested. We can, if required, prepare detached films from liquid coatings. In this case a 250 ml sample of each coating is required together with application instructions.

 

Accreditation

Although PRA is accredited to ISO 17025 by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS), we are not accredited to carry out this particular test.

 

Please contact Peter Collins for further details.

 

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