ISO 2439

At STEP Lab, we are committed to produce high quality machines that comply with several international standards, such as the International Standard for Determination of Indentation Hardness of Flexible Cellular Materials, ISO 2439.

WHAT IS ISO 2439?

The measurement of indentation hardness in flexible cellular materials serves as an indication of their ability to bear loads. ISO 2439 outlines four test methods (A to D) for determining indentation hardness, as well as one method (E) for evaluating the compressive deflection coefficient and hysteresis loss rate of such materials. Annex A provides a concise overview of test parameters and typical force-indentation graphs obtained through these methods.

It is important to note that these five methods are specifically applicable to latex foam, urethane foam, and PVC foam of the open-cell type. They are suitable for testing finished articles and characterizing bulk materials.

ISO 2439 – TEST METHODS

ISO 2439 specifies the following test methods:

• Method A: Determines the indentation hardness index of 40%/30s, providing a single measurement for laboratory testing purposes.
• Method B: Determines the indentation hardness characteristics of 25%-40%-65%/30s, offering insights into the shape of the hardness indentation curve.
• Method C: Determines the indentation hardness check of 40%, designed as a quick procedure suitable for quality control testing.
• Method D: Determines the low indentation hardness index of 25%/20s, designed as a quick procedure suitable for inspection tests.
• Method E: Determines the compressive deflection coefficient and hysteresis loss rate, providing additional information about the load-bearing properties of materials.

However, it is important to recognize that the results obtained through these methods pertain solely to the specified test conditions and, in general, should not be directly employed for design purposes.