ASTM D3420-pendulum impact tester

ASTM D3420

Pendulum Impact Test Method

ASTM D3420 is a widely recognized standard used to determine the pendulum impact resistance of plastic film materials. It simulates real-world impact conditions to assess a film’s toughness, particularly for applications in packaging, medical, and consumer goods. 

Získat nabídku

Understanding ASTM D3420 and Its Importance

ASTM D3420 is a widely recognized standard used to determine the pendulum impact resistance of plastic film materials. It simulates real-world impact conditions to assess a film’s toughness, particularly for applications in packaging, medical, and consumer goods. This guide explains how to conduct the test using a film pendulum impact tester, jako je např. Cell Instruments Model PIT-01, and provides insights into the Spencer impact test, procedures, calculations, and reporting methods.

These test methods are critical in evaluating the toughness and quality of plastic films and are widely adopted in various industries, including packaging and food safety applications.

Pendulum Impact Resistance of Plastic Film: Test Overview

This method measures the energy (in joules) required for a hemispherical pendulum head to rupture a film specimen held between circular clamps. ASTM D3420 includes two procedures:

  • Procedure A: Uses a 60-mm aperture and a 25.4-mm diameter impact head.
  • Procedure B (Spencer Impact Test): Uses an 89-mm aperture and a 19-mm diameter impact head.

Both procedures use a calibrated film pendulum impact tester to measure energy transferred during impact.

Film Pendulum Impact Tester Setup and Specifications

To perform ASTM D3420 effectively, use a certified pendulum impact tester that complies with the standard’s apparatus requirements. Cell Instruments’ Model PIT-01 is an ideal choice for professional labs, offering:

  • Multiple energy range options (0.5 to 5.0 J)
  • Analog or digital readouts
  • O-ring clamp system to prevent slippage
  • Adjustable pendulum weights for different film types

For optimal accuracy:

  • Ensure proper leveling of the equipment.
  • Zero the dial or digital scale before each test.
  • Verify calibration per ASTM D1922 or the manufacturer’s guidance.

Reporting Test Results

Your report should include:

  • Sample identification and test conditions
  • Procedure used (A or B)
  • Number of specimens tested
  • Average impact energy (J)
  • Average specimen thickness
  • Standard deviation (if required)

Recording environmental data like temperature and humidity is crucial for reproducibility.

Conducting the Spencer Impact Test

The Spencer impact test (Procedure B) is commonly used for thicker or more durable films. Here’s a brief step-by-step:

  1. Condition specimens to 23 ± 2°C and 50 ± 10% RH.
  2. Measure thickness precisely using a micrometer (±0.00025 mm).
  3. Cut and mount specimens using an 89-mm aperture and O-ring clamp.
  4. Raise and release the pendulum from the latched position.
  5. Observe and record the energy absorbed to rupture the film.
  6. Repeat for at least five specimens and calculate the average.

Impact Energy Calculation for Procedure B:

E = (R / 100) × C
Where:

  • E = energy in joules
  • R = scale reading (0–100)
  • C = tester capacity (e.g., 0.17, 0.34, 0.67 J, etc.)

Choosing the Best Pendulum Impact Tester

Accurately testing pendulum impact resistance of plastic film using ASTM D3420 is critical for ensuring material performance in demanding environments. By following the outlined procedures and using a reliable instrument like the Buněčné nástroje PIT-01, labs and manufacturers can achieve repeatable, precise, and standards-compliant results. This helps ensure product safety, enhance packaging reliability, and maintain compliance with international standards.

ASTM D3420

Contact Us Get ASTM D3420 Testing Solution

Understanding and applying ASTM D3420 Pendulum Impact Test method ensures the reliability and safety of plastic films in real-world applications. With robust test procedures techniques, professionals can confidently evaluate film impact resistance, helping to drive product improvement and maintain high-quality standards.

For more information on the Cell Instruments PIT-01 or to discuss customized testing needs, contact our technical team today!

cs_CZCS
en_USEN es_ESES de_DEDE fr_FRFR it_ITIT arAR ko_KRKO jaJA ru_RURU pt_PTPT viVI id_IDID belBE bg_BGBG bs_BABS da_DKDA elEL etET fiFI he_ILHE hi_INHI hrHR hu_HUHU kkKK lt_LTLT lvLV ml_INML my_MMMY nn_NONN nl_NLNL pl_PLPL ro_RORO sk_SKSK sr_RSSR sv_SESV ta_LKTA sl_SISL ukUK uz_UZUZ tr_TRTR sqSQ cs_CZCS
Přejděte na začátek

ZÍSKAT bezplatnou nabídku a metodu?

Vyplňte níže uvedený formulář a my se vám brzy ozveme.