Proficiency / Plastics Testing

Multiplastics Using Centrally Prepared Specimens

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

ASTM's Proficiency Test Program on Multiplastics: Mechanical Properties Testing provides laboratories with a statistical quality assurance (SQA) tool, enabling labs to compare, improve, and maintain performance in conducting mechanical property tests on multiplastic materials.

Conducted biannually, this program provides (for each test cycle) test specimens from three different plastic materials, forms to record test data, and instructions for conducting the tests. Labs are instructed to conduct the tests in their facilities using the ASTM or ISO methods cited in the program, and to record their test results on the data report form.

Each laboratory electronically submits test data to ASTM for use in generating statistical summary reports. Final reports, contain:


  • Coded laboratory test results
  • Statistical analysis of test data
  • Charts plotting test results versus lab code
  • Other information

TEST MATERIALS

Plastic materials included: Reinforced Acetal, ABS, Polycarbonate, Polystyrene, Reinforced PET, and Polypropylene. Each lab receives an appropriate and sufficient number of test specimens to conduct tests according to ASTM and/or ISO methods. Each lab receives three different plastics materials in each test cycle. Extra test specimens provided.


TEST METHODS

Tensile

D638 Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics


ISO527 Part 2 Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics

Flexural

D790 Test Methods for Flexural Properties of Unreinforced and Reinforced Plastics and Electrical Insulating Materials

ISO178 Determination of Flexural Properties of Rigid Plastics

Impact

D256 Test Methods for Determinaion of the Pendulum Impact Resistance of Notched Specimens of Plastics

ISO180 Determination of Izod Impact Strength of Rigid Materials

Deflection Temperature Under Load

D648 Test Method for Deflection Temperature of Plastics Under Flexural Load

ISO75 Part 2 Determination of Temperature of Deflection Under Load

WHY SHOULD YOUR LABORATORY PARTICIPATE?

You receive test results, available only to participating laboratories that will help you:


  • Periodically compare your test results and calculated statistical parameters with other laboratories in the plastics testing community worldwide
  • Examine data from the same testing program for both ASTM and ISO methods A useful quality control tool to monitor the strengths and weaknesses of laboratory testing
  • Meet your labs accreditation needs.

PROGRAM SCHEDULE & FEE INFORMATION


Registration is on an annual basis with testing conducted in May and November.

Samples, test instructions, and electronic report forms are distributed during the beginning of each test month. Labs are given approximately five weeks to conduct tests and submit data to ASTM. Final summary reports are sent to participants approximately 20-25 business days following the receipt deadline of test data.


ASTM Methods Testing

$694

ISO Methods Testing

$694

Both ASTM & ISO Methods

$1010

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Participation is on an annual fee basis and open to all laboratories. Registration fees must be paid in advance to participate in the program. Testing must be performed within the participants' laboratory facilities.


ABOUT ASTM COMMITTEE D20

Committee D20 on Plastics, consisting of over 750 members and developer of over 470 standards, provides the technical direction for the program. Test information generated through the program is utilized by Committee D20 to determine if modifications to ASTM documents or new methods are warranted. Data submitted to Committee D20 from ASTM is coded to maintain lab confidentially.


If you need additional information, please contact PTP (e-mail ptp@astm.org ) or Fax (610) 832-9668.