This paper presents a guide for evaluation and utilization of data provided by the instrumented dart impact test. This guide was developed after evaluating seven different plastics and composites, different probe diameters, impact velocities, and different test temperatures. These were instrumented tests that yielded complete load and absorbed energy profiles as a function of probe penetration distance. A special high-speed video technique was used to develop an understanding of and confidence in interpretation of the major features of the load-deflection profile.

The concepts and comments are applicable to other techniques of dart impact testing. An important element of this paper is its application to widely differing data records and the recognition that the data analysis should not be forced for certain types of data records.