Proficiency Testing Programs / Plastics Testing

Multiplastics Using Centrally Prepared Specimens

2013 Annual Fee:

ASTM and ISO methods: $1,101.00

ASTM mehods only: $758.00

ISO methods only: $758.00

Schedule: May/November

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

Samples, test instructions and data report forms are distributed electronically to each participant on the date samples are distributed. Labs have approximately 8 weeks to submit test data with the final statistical summary reports being electronically distributed in approximately 25 days.


For more information, contact us.


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 Determination 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

ISO179-1, ISO179-2 Determination of Charpy Impact Properties

DISTRIBUTION OF SAMPLES

Test samples are prepared and distributed by businesses hired for their expertise. Program registration fees include the cost of shipping the test samples.


WHY SHOULD YOUR LABORATORY PARTICIPATE?

ASTM's Proficiency Test Program provides you with:

  • A useful and meaningful statistical quality assurance tool to monitor the strengths and weaknesses of your laboratory's performance in conducting testing.
  • The resource you need to satisfy proficiency testing elements of laboratory accreditation.
  • A periodic comparison of test results with other participating laboratories.

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Participation is on an annual fee basis and open to all laboratories. Registration fees must be paid in advance to participate. Testing must be performed within the participant's laboratory facilities. A laboratory does not need to perform all the program tests to participate.


ABOUT ASTM INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE D20 ON PLASTICS

Committee D20 on Plastics, consisting of over 750 members, is a developer of 470 standards. The Committee provides the technical direction for the program. Test information from the program may be utilized by Committee D20 to determine if changes to the ASTM test methods are warranted. Data submitted to Committee D20 is coded by ASTM to maintain confidentiality.