Flexible foam polymer materials are used in a variety of applications, such as car seats, furniture upholstery and sports equipment. However, in some special cases, such as applications in low-temperature environments, these materials may be exposed to extreme conditions, so accurate testing of their low-temperature flexibility is critical. This article will introduce a standards-based low-temperature flexibility test method designed to evaluate the flexibility performance of flexible foam polymer materials in low-temperature environments to ensure their reliability and durability in practical applications.
Soft foam polymer material is a lightweight, soft and elastic material commonly used in the manufacture of seats, padding and cushioning materials. However, in low-temperature environments, these materials may become brittle and hard, losing their original softness, thus affecting their performance and functionality. Therefore, it is of great significance to accurately test the flexibility of flexible foam polymer materials under low temperature conditions.
Standard references
The low-temperature flexibility test method used in this article refers to relevant standards such as GB/T2918-1998 "Standard Environment for Condition Adjustment and Testing of Plastic Samples" and GB/T6342-1996 "Determination of Linear Dimensions of Foam Plastics and Rubber" to ensure that the test accuracy and reliability.
Test principle
The principle of the low-temperature flexibility test is to place the sample under specified low-temperature conditions for a period of time, and then bend it 180° around the mandrel to observe the flexibility of the sample to reflect its performance characteristics in a low-temperature environment. During the test, if the sample is broken or damaged, it will be deemed to have failed the test.
Test Instruments
Low Temperature Test Chamber: Provides a specified low temperature environment to ensure the accuracy and stability of the test temperature.
Mandrel: The diameter is approximately 4 times the thickness of the specimen, used to surround and bend the specimen.
Measuring tool: Complies with the regulations of GB/T6342-1996 and is used to measure the size of the sample.
Sample preparation
The specimen needs to be prepared using mechanical processing methods to ensure that its size meets the standard requirements and the surface is smooth and free of cracks. The recommended specimen size is a rectangular parallelepiped with dimensions of (150±10) mm x (50±10) mm x (10±1) mm.
Experimental procedure
The sample needs to be placed under natural conditions for 72 hours and then adjusted to ensure that the sample state is stable and uniform during the test.
The temperature of the Test Chamber is adjusted to the specified low temperature conditions, such as (-40±1)°C, (-55±1)°C or (-75±1)°C.
Use measuring tools to measure the length, width and thickness of each sample in accordance with the method of GB/T6342-1996, in millimeters (mm).
Place the sample in the low-Temperature Test Chamber and bend it 180° around the mandrel for about 2 to 3 seconds.
Observe whether the sample is cracked or cracked, and record the test results of each sample.
According to the test results, record whether the sample passed the test and whether cracks or damage occurred. The test report shall include the test conditions, test results for each specimen, and a description of any deviations from the standard requirements. Through the complete test report, the flexibility performance of soft foam polymer materials in low temperature environments can be evaluated, providing a reliable basis for their selection and application in practical applications.
Low temperature flexibility testing is one of the important methods to evaluate the performance of flexible foam polymer materials in extreme environments. By using standardized testing methods, the flexibility characteristics of materials under low temperature conditions can be accurately evaluated, providing a reliable reference for the design and application of materials, thereby ensuring their reliability and durability in various application scenarios.
