At STEP Lab, our core mission is to produce advanced testing machines tailored for a variety of industries, including biomedical applications. Our technology is engineered to deliver superior performance and reliability, aligning seamlessly with global standards, notably ASTM D7136. We are committed to meeting your materials testing needs with precision and compliance at the forefront of our priorities.
WHAT IS ASTM D7136?
ASTM D7136 is an international standard developed by ASTM and it outlines procedures for evaluating the damage resistance of fiber-reinforced polymer matrix composite plates. ASTM D7136 serves as a crucial benchmark for assessing the impact performance of these materials, providing standardized guidelines for testing and comparison purposes.
WHAT DOES ASTM D7136 MEASURE?
The primary focus of ASTM D7136 is to measure the damage resistance of fiber-reinforced polymer matrix composite plates subjected to a drop-weight impact test. The test quantifies the ability of the material to withstand concentrated impacts and determines the size and type of damage sustained during the test. This information is vital for understanding the impact behavior of composite materials, aiding in product development and the selection of appropriate materials for specific applications.
ASTM D7136 – HOW TO PERFORM A TEST
To perform the ASTM D7136 test, five flat, rectangular specimens of the material/lay-up under consideration are tested. The potential energy used for impact is calculated as 4.94 ft-lb (6.7J) multiplied by the specimen thickness. The specimens are then subjected to an out-of-plane, concentrated impact using a hemispherical impactor/insert with a diameter of 0.625 inches (16mm). Post-impact, visual inspection and measurements are conducted to determine the damage sustained. Additionally, instrumentation, such as strain gauges and the Data Acquisition System, can be employed for a more detailed analysis of hidden failure points or incipient damage.
ASTM D7136 – TEST SPECIMEN
The test specimen, in this context, refers to the flat, rectangular pieces of the fiber-reinforced polymer matrix composite material being evaluated. These specimens are representative of the material/lay-up being tested, and the results obtained from these specimens provide insights into the overall damage resistance properties of the composite plate.
TESTING MACHINE FOR ASTM D7136
For ASTM D7136 testing, the choice of a suitable testing machine is critical. STEP Lab recommends the use of their advanced equipment, such as the DW750, DW1000 and DW2000, depending on the specific impact energy requirements. These machines are designed to deliver precise and controlled impacts, ensuring that the testing conditions comply with the ASTM standard. Additional features, such as optional lightweight crossheads, anti-rebound devices, extended support tables, and safety enclosures, contribute to the reliability and safety of the testing process. The use of the Data Acquisition System and related instrumentation enhances the ability to capture nuanced details of the material’s response to impact.
Conduct tests in adherence to ASTM D7136 standards with our Drop Towers, featuring:
- Impact velocities up to 5.0 m/s (up to 20 m/s with a spring preload system)
- Range of standard drop weights (0.5 to 10 kg, totaling 70 kg)
- Impact velocity acquisition at 200 kHz
- Force signal acquisition rate up to 10 MHz.
For more information on our impact test systems, click the button below.
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