ASTM D 3965 : 1999

1.1 This specification covers materials made from only virgin ABS polymers and blends of ABS polymers suitable for use in the extrusion of pipe and molding of fittings.

1.2 The requirements of this specification are applicable only to the ABS polymers and blends of ABS polymers as classified and do not address the requirements of the finished pipe or fittings. The applicable ASTM standard specification for pipe or fittings should be consulted for their requirements.

1.3 This specification excludes ABS polymers and blends of ABS polymers made from reprocessed, regrind, reclaimed, or recycled materials. ABS rework, generated in-house by the original plastic manufacturer, may be used by that original manufacturer, provided the ABS product shipped meets the physical and mechanical properties required by its callout in Table 1 of this document.

1.4 This specification provides a means for describing ABS materials used in the manufacture of pipe and fittings. It is not intended for the selection of materials. Material selection should be made by those having expertise in the plastics field after careful consideration of the design and the performance required of the part, the environment to which it will be exposed, the fabrication process to be employed, the inherent properties of the material other than those covered by this specification, and the economics.

1.5 This specification provides for the classification of ABS polymers and blends of ABS polymers into groups based on five properties: Izod impact strength at room temperature, Izod impact strength at low temperature, deflection temperature under load, tensile stress at yield point, and modulus of elasticity in tension. The properties included in this specification are those required to identify the ABS material by the cell classifications.

Note 1-Other requirements necessary to identify particular characteristics of ABS polymers and blends of ABS polymers will be added as test methods become available or the need is identified. Note 2-Due to pipe and fitting standards requirements a separate standard is being developed for recycled materials. Note 3-This specification is similar to ISO 7245-1984, in title only. The technical content is significantly different.

1.6 The values stated in SI units, as detailed in Practice E380, are to be regarded as the standard. The practices of Practice E380 are incorporated herein. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.7 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test methods portion, Section 12, of this specification: This 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.