MECHANICAL TESTING LABORATORY

Due to the very large number of tests offered, descriptions of those most commonly requested have been gathered into the following groups:

ASTM D638 – Tensile Testing of Plastics

To request a quotation for any test email info@trl.com for a prompt reply

ASTM D638 is in Touchstone’s NADCAP and ISO 17025 scope.

This test method covers the determination of the tensile properties of unreinforced and reinforced plastics in the form of standard dumbbell-shaped test specimens when tested under defined conditions of pretreatment, temperature, humidity and testing machine speed. Touchstone is also able to perform the technically equivalent method ISO 527-1 Determination of Tensile properties of Plastics.

This test method can be used for testing materials of any thickness up to 14 mm (0.55 in.). However, for testing specimens in the form of thin sheeting, including film less than 1.0 mm (0.04 in.) in thickness, Test Methods D 882 is the preferred test method. Materials with a thickness greater than 14 mm (0.55 in.) must be reduced by machining.

It is recommended to test at least five specimens for each sample in the case of isotropic materials. For anisotropic materials, it is recommended to test five specimens parallel with the principle axis of anisotropy and five normal to. Tensile properties may vary with specimen preparation and with speed and environment of testing. Consequently, where precise comparative results are desired, these factors must be carefully controlled.

This test method is designed to produce tensile property data for the control and specification of plastic materials. These data are also useful for qualitative characterization and for research and development. For many materials, there may be a specification that requires the use of this method, but with some procedural modifications that take precedence when adhering to the specification.

Please email info@trl.com or call (304) 547-5800 for information regarding test procedures, results, specimen information, pricing or any other ASTM D638 questions you may have.

References: ASTM D638 – Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics. ISO 527-1: Plastics – Determination of Tensile Properties – Part 1: General