Puncture tests for plastics

polymerphys IK is the center of expertise for plastics testing in the Rhine-Main area of Germany. Tests performed here include multiaxial puncture tests on hard plastics and films, using a Zwick HIT 230 F testing instrument specially developed for this type of test. The HIT 230F allows reliable identification of characteristic material properties combined with high specimen throughput and a wide temperature range. The characteristic values obtained then enter the material selection process and pass into product development.

polymerphys IK’s accredited testing laboratory applies established standardized mechanical testing methods to plastics, such methods being used primarily in quality testing and plastics product development. However, non-standard tests specially adapted to individual customer requirements can also be performed and are frequently requested.

“We value good, close collaboration with customers, partners and suppliers,” stresses Knut Laumen (Dipl.-Ing.), owner and founder of polymerphys IK. “Just as with quality and accuracy, we place great emphasis on flexibility and effective collaboration. Of course time and cost are important parameters for our customers, but they must not influence accuracy and quality. Our basic principle is that we pay close attention – and that also applies to our testing equipment. We are hardcore users, testing instruments down to the smallest detail and placing very severe demands on our testing equipment.” With these requirements in mind the company has already been able to put Zwick’s HIT 230 F instrumented puncture test instrument through its paces in the course of equipment selection.

The puncture tests carried out at polymerphys IK are used to determine the multiaxial impact behavior of hard plastics and films and approach natural loading very closely. As a consequence the material characteristic values obtained are frequently in demand in the fields of material selection and product development. In addition, many cases require accurate investigation of the influence of temperature on impact behavior under multiaxial loading. Continual increases in the quality and safety requirements placed on plastics products mean that characteristic values for these materials are becoming ever more important – as is a simple means of determining them.

“Zwick’s HIT 230 F drop-weight tester scored with us over other instruments on the market, particularly due to its ease of handling, good specimen-support accessibility and the associated option of testing over a wide temperature range,” explains Knut Laumen. “These were the key points in our decision in favor of the Zwick HIT 230 F. Our customers value flexibility and quality – and with the Zwick testing instrument we can cater for their demands.” He adds, “On top of that, when used in combination with the ‘testXpert’ software package it leaves nothing to be desired in meeting the exacting requirements
of our laboratory.”

Fig. 1: The modular weights can be changed quickly and easily.

Fig. 2: Flexible specimen gripping allows changeover from ISO
to ASTM fixtures whenever required

More information about drop weight tester.