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Tests for plastics and 3D print materials

𝐐𝐔𝐕 Weathering Test (ISO 4892-3)

  • Purpose: Simulates long-term exposure of plastics to sunlight (UV), heat, and moisture.
  • Why: To evaluate how the material degrades or changes over time when used outdoors or in harsh environments.
  • Results: Changes in color, gloss, surface cracking, brittleness, and overall durability.

𝐓ensile Strength Testing (ISO 527)

  • Purpose: Measures the maximum stress a plastic specimen can withstand while being stretched.
  • Why: To assess mechanical strength and structural integrity for applications under load.
  • Results: Tensile strength, elongation at break, modulus of elasticity, and deformation behavior.

𝐃ielectric Testing (ISO 60243-1 / ISO 3451)

  • Purpose: Evaluates the insulating properties of plastics and electrical components.
  • Why: To ensure the material performs safely in electrical or electronic applications.
  • Results: Dielectric strength, breakdown voltage, insulation resistance, and safety thresholds.

𝐀brasion Resistance Test (ISO 4649)

  • Purpose: Determines how resistant a plastic is to surface wear from friction or rubbing.
  • Why: To predict lifespan and durability in applications involving repeated contact or mechanical wear.
  • Results: Material loss, surface roughness changes, and wear rate.

𝐂hemical Resistance Test (ISO 175)

  • Purpose: Measures the ability of plastics to resist degradation from chemicals, solvents, oils, or cleaning agents.
  • Why: To verify suitability for chemical-exposed environments or industrial use.
  • Results: Changes in weight, dimensions, appearance, hardness, and mechanical properties.

𝐇umidity & Climatic Resistance Test (ISO 6270)

  • Purpose: Assesses the effect of prolonged exposure to high humidity, condensation, or cyclic moisture.
  • Why: To ensure the material maintains performance in humid or wet environments.
  • Results: Swelling, blistering, loss of mechanical strength, or surface changes.

𝐀cid & Salt Spray Test (ISO 9227)

  • Purpose: Simulates exposure to corrosive environments, including acidic rain and salty atmospheres.
  • Why: To check corrosion resistance of coatings or plastic composites with metal inserts.
  • Results: Corrosion rate, surface pitting, color change, and protective coating performance.

𝐀dhesion Test (ISO 2409 / ISO 4624)

  • Purpose: Evaluates how well coatings or layers adhere to a substrate.
  • Why: To ensure that paint, coating, or layered plastics will not peel or delaminate under use.
  • Results: Adhesion rating, peel strength, and likelihood of coating failure.

𝐇ardness Test (ISO 2039-1 / ISO 868)

  • Purpose: Measures the resistance of plastic surfaces to indentation.
  • Why: To assess surface durability and resistance to scratching or denting.
  • Results: Hardness value (e.g., Shore A or D), which helps determine surface performance.

𝐅lexibility / Bend Test (ISO 178 / ISO 899-1)

  • Purpose: Tests the material’s ability to bend or flex without breaking.
  • Why: To ensure plastics maintain integrity under flexural stress during usage.
  • Results: Flexural modulus, bending stress, and deflection at break.

𝐈mpact Resistance Test (ISO 179 / ISO 180)

  • Purpose: Determines the energy a plastic specimen can absorb during sudden impact.
  • Why: To verify toughness and performance under shock or drop conditions.
  • Results: Impact strength (kJ/m²), fracture behavior, and brittleness assessment.

𝐆loss Measurement (ISO 2813 / ASTM D523)

  • Purpose: Measures the reflective quality or shininess of plastic surfaces.
  • Why: Important for aesthetic evaluation and quality control in coatings or decorative plastics.
  • Results: Gloss units (GU) at specific angles, uniformity of surface finish, and visual appearance.

𝐂ustomized Testing Based on Client Requirements

  • Purpose: Tailored testing to address specific application needs or regulatory requirements.
  • Why: Some products require unique evaluation beyond standard methods.
  • Results: Customized data and insights for specific material performance and compliance.

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