1.1This test method covers the determination of flexural properties of unreinforced and reinforced plastics, including high-modulus composites and electrical insulating materials in the form of rectangular bars molded directly or cut from sheets, plates, or molded shapes. These test methods are generally applicable to rigid and semirigid materials. However, flexural strength cannot be determined for those materials that do not break or that do not fail in the outer fibers. This test method utilizes a four point loading system applied to a simply supported beam.
1.2This test method describes two procedures (Procedure A and Procedure B), the selection of which depends on the behavior of the sample to be tested as explained below:
1.2.1Procedure A, designed principally for materials that break at comparatively small deflections. It shall be used for measurement of flexural properties, particularly flexural modulus, unless the material specification states otherwise.
1.2.2Procedure B, designed particularly for those materials that undergo large deflections during testing. It is suitable for measurement of flexural strength.
1.3Comparative tests are permitted to be run according to either procedure, provided that the procedure is found satisfactory for the material being tested.
1.4The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values provided in parentheses are for information only.
1.5This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Note 1:This test method is similar to ISO 14125, Method B. However, ISO 14125, Method B specifies only a load span of 1/3the support span whereas D6272 also permits a load span of 1/2the support span. For this reason and other differences in technical content, exercise extreme care if attempting to compare results between the two test methods.