ASTM F 3270/F3270M : 2017 : R2024

1.1This practice measures the compression properties of a gasket material by measuring gasket deflection while it is subjected to an increasing compressive load until a target load is reached. The load and change in thickness are recorded at a defined loading rate as a function of time for the duration of the test.

1.2Suggested loading rates are 0.5 MPa/s [72.52 psi/s] for all types of gaskets except for expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), elastomer, and cork/elastomer gaskets when 0.1 MPa/s [14.5 psi/s] is used.

1.3The Part A test is performed that measures the compression properties of a gasket material by measuring gasket thickness while it is subjected to an increasing compressive load until a target load is reached. This test is performed at room temperature but may be performed at an elevated temperature if desired or when agreed upon by producer and user.

1.4The Part B test may be performed that measures the compression properties of a gasket material by measuring gasket thickness while it is subjected to increasing compressive loads that includes a sequence or sequences in which the gasket is unloaded followed by a resumption of the compressive load until a target load is reached. The unloading rate is the same as the loading rate unless different loading and unloading rates are desired or when agreed upon by producer and user. This test is performed at room temperature but may be performed at an elevated temperature if desired or when agreed upon by producer and user.

1.5The testing parameters for both Parts A and B including the gasket material type, gasket dimensions, platen type (RF or FF), target load, loading time, recording interval used during the test, loading and unloading rates, and temperature are to be reported with the results.

1.6Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.

1.7This 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.8This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.