ASTM F1157-04(2015)

Standard Practice for Classifying the Relative Performance of the Physical Properties of Security Seals

ABSTRACT
This practice covers methods for testing the physical properties of mechanical (passive) security seals. Where appropriate, the various tests include particular apparatus or procedural specifications required for different types of security seals. A security seal shall be evaluated in accordance with its classification into one of five general groups and its performance in the following six tests: pull (tensile) shear, bending, impact, low temperature impact, and high temperature pull (tensile). A security seal shall receive a grade designation based upon its measured performance in each of the required tests. The seals shall be classified according to groups: Group 1; Group 2; Group 3; Group 4; and Group 5. Pull test, shear test, bending test, impact test, and extreme temperature tests shall be performed to conform with the specified requirements.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers methods for testing the physical properties of mechanical (passive) security seals. Where appropriate, the various tests include particular apparatus or procedural specifications required for different types of security seals. This practice does not address adhesive (tape or label style) or electronic types of security seals.  
1.2 This practice will serve as a basis for comparing the response of various security seals under different simulated modes of attack. The security seal to be evaluated shall first be classified into established groupings, and then tested in the manner designated as most suitable for that class of seal, in accordance with Classification F832.  
1.3 A mechanical security seal is a single use, passive device intended to detect tampering or entry into the sealed item. Removal of the security seal requires permanent and irreversible damage to the seal. The following procedures reflect the relative performance of security seals when subject to various destructive physical attacks. These tests simulate known and likely security seal implementation and attack methods.  
1.4 Security seals often contain unique identification markings for authentication purposes to discourage duplication and to prevent reapplication. This practice does not address unique identifiers or vulnerabilities of security seals.
Note 1: See Guide F1158 for procedures on the inspection and evaluation of tampering of security seals. See also Guide F946.  
1.5 It is the responsibility of users of this practice to interpret their specific security needs concerning the application of seals, and to determine the grade of seal appropriate for their particular application. ASTM assumes no responsibility for losses occurring as a result of a defeated seal, whether the defeat is apparent, or the seal is not suited for its application.  
1.6 The values as stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are given for information only.  
1.7 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test procedures portion, Section 6, of this practice. 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.

General Information

• Status: Historical
• Publication Date: 31-Dec-2014
• ICS: 97.020 - Home economics in general
• Technical Committee: F12 - Security Systems and Equipment
• Drafting Committee: F12.50 - Locking Devices

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM F1157-04(2010) - Standard Practice for Classifying the Relative Performance of the Physical Properties of Security Seals
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2015
• Replaced By: ASTM F1157-04(2023) - Standard Practice for Classifying the Relative Performance of the Physical Properties of Security Seals
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM F946-85(2018) - Standard Guide for Establishing Security Seal Control and Accountability Procedures
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2018
• Refers: ASTM F832-90(2016) - Standard Classification for Security Seals
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2016
• Refers: ASTM F1158-94(2015) - Standard Guide for Inspection and Evaluation of Tampering of Security Seals
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2015
• Refers: ASTM F946-85(2010) - Standard Guide for Establishing Security Seal Control and Accountability Procedures
• Effective Date: 01-May-2010
• Refers: ASTM F883-09 - Standard Performance Specification for Padlocks
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2009
• Refers: ASTM F832-90(2008) - Standard Classification for Security Seals
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2008
• Refers: ASTM F1158-94(2008) - Standard Guide for Inspection and Evaluation of Tampering of Security Seals
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2008
• Refers: ASTM F883-04 - Standard Performance Specification for Padlocks
• Effective Date: 01-May-2004
• Refers: ASTM F946-85(2004) - Standard Guide for Establishing Security Seal Control and Accountability Procedures
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2004
• Refers: ASTM F832-90(2001) - Standard Classification for Security Seals
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2001
• Refers: ASTM F1158-94 - Standard Guide for Inspection and Evaluation of Tampering of Security Seals
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2001
• Refers: ASTM F1158-94(2001) - Standard Guide for Inspection and Evaluation of Tampering of Security Seals
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2001
• Refers: ASTM F832-90(1994)e1 - Standard Classification for Security Seals
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2001

Standards Content (Sample)

This 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.
Designation: F1157 − 04 (Reapproved 2015)
Standard Practice for
Classifying the Relative Performance of the Physical
Properties of Security Seals
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1157; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope for losses occurring as a result of a defeated seal, whether the
defeat is apparent, or the seal is not suited for its application.
1.1 This practice covers methods for testing the physical
properties of mechanical (passive) security seals. Where 1.6 The values as stated in inch-pound units are to be
appropriate, the various tests include particular apparatus or regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are given
procedural specifications required for different types of secu- for information only.
rityseals.Thispracticedoesnotaddressadhesive(tapeorlabel
1.7 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the
style) or electronic types of security seals.
test procedures portion, Section 6, of this practice. This
standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns,
1.2 This practice will serve as a basis for comparing the
if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user
response of various security seals under different simulated
of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health
modes of attack. The security seal to be evaluated shall first be
practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limita-
classified into established groupings, and then tested in the
tions prior to use.
manner designated as most suitable for that class of seal, in
accordance with Classification F832.
2. Referenced Documents
1.3 A mechanical security seal is a single use, passive
2.1 ASTM Standards:
device intended to detect tampering or entry into the sealed
F832 Classification for Security Seals
item. Removal of the security seal requires permanent and
F883 Performance Specification for Padlocks
irreversible damage to the seal. The following procedures
F946 Guide for Establishing Security Seal Control and
reflect the relative performance of security seals when subject
Accountability Procedures
to various destructive physical attacks. These tests simulate
F1158 Guide for Inspection and Evaluation of Tampering of
known and likely security seal implementation and attack
Security Seals
methods.
3. Terminology
1.4 Security seals often contain unique identification mark-
ings for authentication purposes to discourage duplication and
3.1 Definitions:
to prevent reapplication. This practice does not address unique
3.1.1 locked seal—condition, as intended by the
identifiers or vulnerabilities of security seals.
manufacturer, which secures the sealed item and cannot be
NOTE 1—See Guide F1158 for procedures on the inspection and
reversed or opened without physical destruction of the security
evaluation of tampering of security seals. See also Guide F946.
seal.
1.5 It is the responsibility of users of this practice to
3.1.2 open condition—condition which could allow entry
interpret their specific security needs concerning the applica-
into the sealed item and, for the purposes of this practice, a
tion of seals, and to determine the grade of seal appropriate for
failed security seal.
their particular application. ASTM assumes no responsibility
3.1.3 security seal—passive, one-time locking device used
to indicate tampering or entry, and may be designed to offer
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F12 on Security
Systems and Equipment and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F12.50 on
Locking Devices. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Jan. 1, 2015. Published January 2015. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1988. Last previous edition approved in 2010 as F1157 – 04 (2010). Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
DOI: 10.1520/F1157-04R15. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F1157 − 04 (2015)
limitedresistancetoforcedentry.Securitysealsrequireinspec- 5.2.1.1 Group 1—Flexible cable and wire seals, which can
tion to determine a tampering or entry event. be fixed or adjustable length.
5.2.1.2 Group 2—Strap and cinch seals.
4. Summary of Practice
5.2.1.3 Group 3—Rigid bolt and rod seals, including heavy
duty metal padlock type.
4.1 Asecurity seal shall be evaluated in accordance with its
5.2.1.4 Group 4—Twisted rod or wire seals (pigtail).
classification into one of five general groups and its perfor-
mance in the following six tests: pull (tensile) shear, bending, 5.2.1.5 Group 5—Padlock type seals, scored seals, metal or
impact, low temperature impact, and high temperature pull plastic base.
(tensile).
5.3 If a particular security seal does not appear to fall into
4.2 A security seal shall receive a grade designation based anyofthesegeneralclassifications,theclosestdescriptionshall
upon its measured performance in each of the required tests. be chosen by the user. The effectiveness of the testing
This grade shall be obtained by testing five individual seals in procedures and relevance of the test data may be jeopardized
each of the six specific tests. A minimum of 30 security seal by a faulty classification choice. These general groupings shall
specimens shall be required to complete testing. The grade be assigned the arbitrary numerical listing of one through five,
designation shall be determined by comparing the average respectively, as shown in 5.2.1. The group number shall be
value of the five test results to the corresponding grade documented with the test results.
classification tables presented in this practice.
5.4 The required performance levels in any test category
4.3 All tests shall be performed at ambient room tempera-
shall not be affected by this general classification (see 5.2.1);
ture 65 6 5°F (18.3 6 2.8°C) unless otherwise indicated. only the manner in which the seal is physically manipulated
during subsequent testing shall be affected by this portion of
5. Seal Classification
the evaluation. All seals shall be tested in a locked position
using test fixtures appropriate for the seal group.
5.1 General—For the purpose of defining the most appro-
priate test configuration of the security seal during tests, the
6. Test Procedures
security seal shall be classified as an initial step in accordance
with the groups defined in Classification F832.
6.1 Pull (Tensile) Test:
5.2 For the purpose of comparing the physical properties of 6.1.1 Apply a pull (tensile) load to the locked security seal
security seals, seals are grouped in accordance with the in a direction opposite to the motion required to lock the seal.
following description of application seals: The travel rate of the test shall be 2 6 1 in./min (5.08 6 2.54
5.2.1 Groups: cm/min).
NOTE 1—Pin diameter 0.250 in. (6.35 mm) for smallest cross section dimension less than or equal to 0.125 in. (318 mm).
NOTE 2—Pin diameter 0.500 in. (12.7 mm) for smallest cross section dimension greater than 0.125 in. (3.18 mm).
NOTE 3—Tolerance: 60.010 in. (0.254 mm).
FIG. 1 Schematic Drawings of Pull (Tensile) Test Fixture Requirements for Groups 1 and 2
F1157 − 04 (2015)
FIG. 2 Schematic Drawings of Pull (Tensile) Test Fixture Requirements for Group 3
FIG. 3 Schematic Drawings of Pull (Tensile) Test Fixture Require-
ments for Group 4
FIG. 5 Schematic Drawings of Possible Pull (Tensile) Test Fix-
ture Configurations
6.2.1 Apply a shear force to the security seal specimen to
measure its resistance to a severing action. The shear plane
shalloccuratthesecurityseal’sweakestsection.Theshearrate
shall be 0.5 6 0.2 in./min (1.27 6 0.508 cm/min).
6.2.2 Fixtures necessary to perform this test are determined
by the specimen’s cross-sectional dimensions, material, and
FIG. 4 Schematic Drawings of Pull (Tensile) Test Fixture Require-
construction.
ments for Group 5
6.2.2.1 Fixtures shall be designed such that applied stresses
are within the elastic limit of the fixture material.
6.2.2.2 Fixtures shall be designed to eliminate any artificial
influences upon the tested strength characteristics of the test
6.1.2 Fixtures necessary to perform this test are determined
specimen.
by the group classification of the security seal. Figs. 1-4 show
(1) Conduct shear tests with the shackle cutting fixture and
fixture requirements for the classification groups. Possible
blades defined in Performance Specification F883 (see Fig. 6).
fixture configurations are shown in Fig. 5.
(2) Conduct shear test with precise shear fixture defined in
6.1.2.1 Fixtures shall be designed such that applied stresses
Fig. 7 if the fixture defined in 6.2.2.2(1) cannot sever the
are within the elastic limit of the fixture material.
security seal. The precision cutting fixture is designed for
6.1.2.2 Fixtures shall be designed to eliminate any artificial
smaller cross sections and flexible materials. (Warning—Do
influences upon the tested strength characteristics of the test
not exceed a shear force greater than 2000 lbf (8896 N). If a
specimen.
specimen does not sever during the application of 2001 lbf
6.1.3 Record the tensile value required to cause an open
(8900 N), halt test and unload test equipment. Record shear
condition for each of the five test specimens. Assign the grade
force of 2000 lbf (8896 N). Do not test specimen to failure.
designation in accordance with 4.2 and Table 1.
Sudden and violent rupture of the test specimen can endanger
6.2 Shear Test: personnel, equipment, and property.)
F1157 − 04 (2015)
is defined as one complete arc of 180°. Assign the grade
designation in accordance with 4.2 and Table 3.
6.3.3 Rigid security seals include rigid bolt, rod and heavy
duty metal padlock security seals (Group 3), and twisted rod or
wire seals (Group 4), and shall be subjected to bending. Fig. 9
shows necessary fixture requirements.
6.3.3.1 Fixtures shall be designed such that applied stresses
are within the elastic limit of the fixture material.
6.3.3.2 Fixtures shall be designed to eliminate any artificial
influences upon the tested strength characteristics of the test
specimen.
6.3.3.3 The pre-test orientation shall be considered 0°. Bend
the security seal and measure the moment necessary to bend
from 0° to 90°. Reverse the applied bending and measure the
moment necessary to cause a bend from 90° to 0°. Repeat this
range of motion, until the security seal exhibits an open
condition. For calculation purposes, the moment arm is defined
as the perpendicular distance between line of action of the
applied force and the point of bend.
6.3.3.4 Record the maximum bending moment required to
cause an open condition for each of the five test specimens.
Assign the grade designation in accordance with 4.2 and Table
4.
6.3.4 Metallichasppadlocksecurityseals(Group5)shallbe
subjected to a twisting or torsional moment. Fig. 10 shows
NOTE 1—All dimensions are in inches (1 in. = 25.4 mm).
necessary fixture requirements.
NOTE 2—See Performance Specification F883 for definition of cutter
6.3.4.1 Fixtures shall be designed such that applied stresses
jaws.
are within the elastic limit of the fixture material.
FIG. 6 Fixture for Use in Shear Test for Security Seals (Patterned
After Padlock Shackle Cutting Fixture in Performance Specifica-
6.3.4.2 Fixtures shall be designed to eliminate any artificial
tion F883)
influences upon the tested strength characteristics of the test
specimen.
6.3.4.3 Apply a moment to the security seal body until the
seal exhibits an open condition.
6.2.3 Record the shear force required to cause an open
6.3.4.4 Record the maximum moment required to cause an
condition for each of the five test specimens. Assign the grade
open condition for each of the five test specimens. Assign the
designation in accordance with 4.2 and Table 2.
grade designation in accordance with 4.2 and Table 4.
6.3 Bending Test:
6.3.5 Non-metallic hasp padlock security seals (Group 5)
6.3.1 Apply a moment to the security seal specimen to
shall be subjected to a twisting or torsional moment. Fig. 11
measure its resistance to a bending or twisting action. For the
shows necessary fixture requirements.
purpose of the bending test, security seals are categorized as
6.3.5.1 Fixtures shall be designed such that applied stresses
flexible (Groups 1 and 2), rigid (Groups 3 and 4), padlocks
are within the elastic limit of the fixture material.
with metallic hasps (Group 5), and padlocks with non-metallic
6.3.5.2 Fixtures shall be designed to eliminate any artificial
hasps (Group 5).
influences upon the tested strength characteristics of the test
6.3.2 Flexible security seals include cable and wire seals
specimen.
(Group 1), and strap and cinch seals (Group 2) and shall be
6.3.5.3 The pre-test orientation with the torsion bar contact-
subjected to bending. Fig. 8 shows necessary fixture require-
ing both shackle legs shall be considered 0°. Rotate the torsion
ments.
bar from 0° to 90° so the bar is in constant contact with the
6.3.2.1 Fixtures shall be designed such that applied stresses
shackle legs. Reverse the motion and rotate the bar from 90° to
are within the elastic limit of the fixture material.
0°. Repeat this arc of 90° until the security seal exhibits an
6.3.2.2 Fixtures shall be designed to eliminate any artificial
open condition.
influences upon the tested strength characteristics of the test
6.3.5.4 Record the bending cycles required to cause an open
specimen.
condition for each of the five test specimens. A bending cycle
6.3.2.3 The pre-test orientation shall be considered 0°. Bend
is defined as a rotation from 0° to 90° to 0°. Assign the grade
the security seal from 0° to 90°. Reverse the motion and bend
designation in accordance with 4.2 and Table 3.
the security seal from 90° to -90°, an arc of 180°. Repeat this
6.4 Impact Test:
180° arc until the security seal exhibits an open condition.
6.3.2.4 Record the bending cycles required to cause an open 6.4.1 Apply a sequence of energy (impact) loads to each
condition for each of the five test specimens. A bending cycle security seal specimen to determine its resistance to impact.
F115
...

NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or withdrawn.
Contact ASTM International (www.astm.org) for the latest information
Designation: F1157 − 04 (Reapproved 2015)
Standard Practice for
Classifying the Relative Performance of the Physical
Properties of Security Seals
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1157; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope for losses occurring as a result of a defeated seal, whether the
defeat is apparent, or the seal is not suited for its application.
1.1 This practice covers methods for testing the physical
properties of mechanical (passive) security seals. Where 1.6 The values as stated in inch-pound units are to be
appropriate, the various tests include particular apparatus or regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are given
procedural specifications required for different types of secu- for information only.
rity seals. This practice does not address adhesive (tape or label
1.7 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the
style) or electronic types of security seals.
test procedures portion, Section 6, of this practice. This
standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns,
1.2 This practice will serve as a basis for comparing the
if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user
response of various security seals under different simulated
of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health
modes of attack. The security seal to be evaluated shall first be
practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limita-
classified into established groupings, and then tested in the
tions prior to use.
manner designated as most suitable for that class of seal, in
accordance with Classification F832.
2. Referenced Documents
1.3 A mechanical security seal is a single use, passive
2.1 ASTM Standards:
device intended to detect tampering or entry into the sealed
F832 Classification for Security Seals
item. Removal of the security seal requires permanent and
F883 Performance Specification for Padlocks
irreversible damage to the seal. The following procedures
F946 Guide for Establishing Security Seal Control and
reflect the relative performance of security seals when subject
Accountability Procedures
to various destructive physical attacks. These tests simulate
F1158 Guide for Inspection and Evaluation of Tampering of
known and likely security seal implementation and attack
Security Seals
methods.
3. Terminology
1.4 Security seals often contain unique identification mark-
ings for authentication purposes to discourage duplication and
3.1 Definitions:
to prevent reapplication. This practice does not address unique
3.1.1 locked seal—condition, as intended by the
identifiers or vulnerabilities of security seals.
manufacturer, which secures the sealed item and cannot be
NOTE 1—See Guide F1158 for procedures on the inspection and
reversed or opened without physical destruction of the security
evaluation of tampering of security seals. See also Guide F946.
seal.
1.5 It is the responsibility of users of this practice to
3.1.2 open condition—condition which could allow entry
interpret their specific security needs concerning the applica-
into the sealed item and, for the purposes of this practice, a
tion of seals, and to determine the grade of seal appropriate for
failed security seal.
their particular application. ASTM assumes no responsibility
3.1.3 security seal—passive, one-time locking device used
to indicate tampering or entry, and may be designed to offer
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F12 on Security
Systems and Equipment and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F12.50 on
Locking Devices. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Jan. 1, 2015. Published January 2015. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1988. Last previous edition approved in 2010 as F1157 – 04 (2010). Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
DOI: 10.1520/F1157-04R15. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F1157 − 04 (2015)
limited resistance to forced entry. Security seals require inspec- 5.2.1.1 Group 1—Flexible cable and wire seals, which can
tion to determine a tampering or entry event. be fixed or adjustable length.
5.2.1.2 Group 2—Strap and cinch seals.
4. Summary of Practice
5.2.1.3 Group 3—Rigid bolt and rod seals, including heavy
duty metal padlock type.
4.1 A security seal shall be evaluated in accordance with its
5.2.1.4 Group 4—Twisted rod or wire seals (pigtail).
classification into one of five general groups and its perfor-
mance in the following six tests: pull (tensile) shear, bending, 5.2.1.5 Group 5—Padlock type seals, scored seals, metal or
impact, low temperature impact, and high temperature pull plastic base.
(tensile).
5.3 If a particular security seal does not appear to fall into
4.2 A security seal shall receive a grade designation based any of these general classifications, the closest description shall
upon its measured performance in each of the required tests. be chosen by the user. The effectiveness of the testing
This grade shall be obtained by testing five individual seals in procedures and relevance of the test data may be jeopardized
each of the six specific tests. A minimum of 30 security seal by a faulty classification choice. These general groupings shall
specimens shall be required to complete testing. The grade be assigned the arbitrary numerical listing of one through five,
designation shall be determined by comparing the average respectively, as shown in 5.2.1. The group number shall be
value of the five test results to the corresponding grade documented with the test results.
classification tables presented in this practice.
5.4 The required performance levels in any test category
4.3 All tests shall be performed at ambient room tempera- shall not be affected by this general classification (see 5.2.1);
ture 65 6 5°F (18.3 6 2.8°C) unless otherwise indicated.
only the manner in which the seal is physically manipulated
during subsequent testing shall be affected by this portion of
5. Seal Classification
the evaluation. All seals shall be tested in a locked position
using test fixtures appropriate for the seal group.
5.1 General—For the purpose of defining the most appro-
priate test configuration of the security seal during tests, the
6. Test Procedures
security seal shall be classified as an initial step in accordance
with the groups defined in Classification F832.
6.1 Pull (Tensile) Test:
5.2 For the purpose of comparing the physical properties of 6.1.1 Apply a pull (tensile) load to the locked security seal
security seals, seals are grouped in accordance with the in a direction opposite to the motion required to lock the seal.
following description of application seals: The travel rate of the test shall be 2 6 1 in./min (5.08 6 2.54
5.2.1 Groups: cm/min).
NOTE 1—Pin diameter 0.250 in. (6.35 mm) for smallest cross section dimension less than or equal to 0.125 in. (318 mm).
NOTE 2—Pin diameter 0.500 in. (12.7 mm) for smallest cross section dimension greater than 0.125 in. (3.18 mm).
NOTE 3—Tolerance: 60.010 in. (0.254 mm).
FIG. 1 Schematic Drawings of Pull (Tensile) Test Fixture Requirements for Groups 1 and 2
F1157 − 04 (2015)
FIG. 2 Schematic Drawings of Pull (Tensile) Test Fixture Requirements for Group 3
FIG. 3 Schematic Drawings of Pull (Tensile) Test Fixture Require-
ments for Group 4
FIG. 5 Schematic Drawings of Possible Pull (Tensile) Test Fix-
ture Configurations
6.2.1 Apply a shear force to the security seal specimen to
measure its resistance to a severing action. The shear plane
shall occur at the security seal’s weakest section. The shear rate
shall be 0.5 6 0.2 in./min (1.27 6 0.508 cm/min).
6.2.2 Fixtures necessary to perform this test are determined
by the specimen’s cross-sectional dimensions, material, and
FIG. 4 Schematic Drawings of Pull (Tensile) Test Fixture Require-
construction.
ments for Group 5
6.2.2.1 Fixtures shall be designed such that applied stresses
are within the elastic limit of the fixture material.
6.2.2.2 Fixtures shall be designed to eliminate any artificial
influences upon the tested strength characteristics of the test
6.1.2 Fixtures necessary to perform this test are determined
specimen.
by the group classification of the security seal. Figs. 1-4 show
(1) Conduct shear tests with the shackle cutting fixture and
fixture requirements for the classification groups. Possible
blades defined in Performance Specification F883 (see Fig. 6).
fixture configurations are shown in Fig. 5.
(2) Conduct shear test with precise shear fixture defined in
6.1.2.1 Fixtures shall be designed such that applied stresses
Fig. 7 if the fixture defined in 6.2.2.2(1) cannot sever the
are within the elastic limit of the fixture material.
security seal. The precision cutting fixture is designed for
6.1.2.2 Fixtures shall be designed to eliminate any artificial
smaller cross sections and flexible materials. (Warning—Do
influences upon the tested strength characteristics of the test
not exceed a shear force greater than 2000 lbf (8896 N). If a
specimen.
specimen does not sever during the application of 2001 lbf
6.1.3 Record the tensile value required to cause an open
(8900 N), halt test and unload test equipment. Record shear
condition for each of the five test specimens. Assign the grade
force of 2000 lbf (8896 N). Do not test specimen to failure.
designation in accordance with 4.2 and Table 1.
Sudden and violent rupture of the test specimen can endanger
6.2 Shear Test: personnel, equipment, and property.)
F1157 − 04 (2015)
is defined as one complete arc of 180°. Assign the grade
designation in accordance with 4.2 and Table 3.
6.3.3 Rigid security seals include rigid bolt, rod and heavy
duty metal padlock security seals (Group 3), and twisted rod or
wire seals (Group 4), and shall be subjected to bending. Fig. 9
shows necessary fixture requirements.
6.3.3.1 Fixtures shall be designed such that applied stresses
are within the elastic limit of the fixture material.
6.3.3.2 Fixtures shall be designed to eliminate any artificial
influences upon the tested strength characteristics of the test
specimen.
6.3.3.3 The pre-test orientation shall be considered 0°. Bend
the security seal and measure the moment necessary to bend
from 0° to 90°. Reverse the applied bending and measure the
moment necessary to cause a bend from 90° to 0°. Repeat this
range of motion, until the security seal exhibits an open
condition. For calculation purposes, the moment arm is defined
as the perpendicular distance between line of action of the
applied force and the point of bend.
6.3.3.4 Record the maximum bending moment required to
cause an open condition for each of the five test specimens.
Assign the grade designation in accordance with 4.2 and Table
4.
6.3.4 Metallic hasp padlock security seals (Group 5) shall be
subjected to a twisting or torsional moment. Fig. 10 shows
NOTE 1—All dimensions are in inches (1 in. = 25.4 mm).
necessary fixture requirements.
NOTE 2—See Performance Specification F883 for definition of cutter
6.3.4.1 Fixtures shall be designed such that applied stresses
jaws.
are within the elastic limit of the fixture material.
FIG. 6 Fixture for Use in Shear Test for Security Seals (Patterned
After Padlock Shackle Cutting Fixture in Performance Specifica-
6.3.4.2 Fixtures shall be designed to eliminate any artificial
tion F883)
influences upon the tested strength characteristics of the test
specimen.
6.3.4.3 Apply a moment to the security seal body until the
seal exhibits an open condition.
6.2.3 Record the shear force required to cause an open
6.3.4.4 Record the maximum moment required to cause an
condition for each of the five test specimens. Assign the grade
open condition for each of the five test specimens. Assign the
designation in accordance with 4.2 and Table 2.
grade designation in accordance with 4.2 and Table 4.
6.3 Bending Test:
6.3.5 Non-metallic hasp padlock security seals (Group 5)
6.3.1 Apply a moment to the security seal specimen to
shall be subjected to a twisting or torsional moment. Fig. 11
measure its resistance to a bending or twisting action. For the
shows necessary fixture requirements.
purpose of the bending test, security seals are categorized as
6.3.5.1 Fixtures shall be designed such that applied stresses
flexible (Groups 1 and 2), rigid (Groups 3 and 4), padlocks
are within the elastic limit of the fixture material.
with metallic hasps (Group 5), and padlocks with non-metallic
6.3.5.2 Fixtures shall be designed to eliminate any artificial
hasps (Group 5).
influences upon the tested strength characteristics of the test
6.3.2 Flexible security seals include cable and wire seals
specimen.
(Group 1), and strap and cinch seals (Group 2) and shall be
6.3.5.3 The pre-test orientation with the torsion bar contact-
subjected to bending. Fig. 8 shows necessary fixture require-
ing both shackle legs shall be considered 0°. Rotate the torsion
ments.
bar from 0° to 90° so the bar is in constant contact with the
6.3.2.1 Fixtures shall be designed such that applied stresses
shackle legs. Reverse the motion and rotate the bar from 90° to
are within the elastic limit of the fixture material.
0°. Repeat this arc of 90° until the security seal exhibits an
6.3.2.2 Fixtures shall be designed to eliminate any artificial
open condition.
influences upon the tested strength characteristics of the test
6.3.5.4 Record the bending cycles required to cause an open
specimen.
condition for each of the five test specimens. A bending cycle
6.3.2.3 The pre-test orientation shall be considered 0°. Bend
is defined as a rotation from 0° to 90° to 0°. Assign the grade
the security seal from 0° to 90°. Reverse the motion and bend
designation in accordance with 4.2 and Table 3.
the security seal from 90° to -90°, an arc of 180°. Repeat this
6.4 Impact Test:
180° arc until the security seal exhibits an open condition.
6.3.2.4 Record the bending cycles required to cause an open 6.4.1 Apply a sequence of energy (impact) loads to each
condition for each of the five test specimens. A bending cycle security seal specimen to determine its resistance to impact.
F1157 − 04 (2015)
NOTE 1—Hole throug
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: F1157 − 04 (Reapproved 2010) F1157 − 04 (Reapproved 2015)
Standard Practice for
Classifying the Relative Performance of the Physical
Properties of Security Seals
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1157; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This practice covers methods for testing the physical properties of mechanical (passive) security seals. Where appropriate,
the various tests include particular apparatus or procedural specifications required for different types of security seals. This practice
does not address adhesive (tape or label style) or electronic types of security seals.
1.2 This practice will serve as a basis for comparing the response of various security seals under different simulated modes of
attack. The security seal to be evaluated shall first be classified into established groupings, and then tested in the manner designated
as most suitable for that class of seal, in accordance with Classification F832.
1.3 A mechanical security seal is a single use, passive device intended to detect tampering or entry into the sealed item. Removal
of the security seal requires permanent and irreversible damage to the seal. The following procedures reflect the relative
performance of security seals when subject to various destructive physical attacks. These tests simulate known and likely security
seal implementation and attack methods.
1.4 Security seals often contain unique identification markings for authentication purposes to discouragesdiscourage duplication
and to prevent reapplication. This practice does not address unique identifiers or vulnerabilities of security seals.
NOTE 1—See Guide F1158 for procedures on the inspection and evaluation of tampering of security seals. See also Guide F946.
1.5 It is the responsibility of users of this practice to interpret their specific security needs concerning the application of seals,
and to determine the grade of seal appropriate for their particular application. ASTM assumes no responsibility for losses occurring
as a result of a defeated seal, whether the defeat is apparent, or the seal is not suited for its application.
1.6 The values as stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are given for
information only.
1.7 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test procedures portion, Section 6, of this practice.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.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
F832 Classification for Security Seals
F883 Performance Specification for Padlocks
F946 Guide for Establishing Security Seal Control and Accountability Procedures
F1158 Guide for Inspection and Evaluation of Tampering of Security Seals
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 locked seal—condition, as intended by the manufacturer, which secures the sealed item and cannot be reversed or opened
without physical destruction of the security seal.
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F12 on Security Systems and Equipment and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F12.50 on Locking
Devices.
Current edition approved May 1, 2010Jan. 1, 2015. Published May 2010January 2015. Originally approved in 1988. Last previous edition approved in 20042010 as
F1157 – 04.F1157 – 04 (2010). DOI: 10.1520/F1157-04R10.10.1520/F1157-04R15.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F1157 − 04 (2015)
3.1.2 open condition—condition which could allow entry into the sealed item and, for the purposes of this practice, a failed
security seal.
3.1.3 security seal—passive, one-time locking device used to indicate tampering or entry, and may be designed to offer limited
resistance to forced entry. Security seals require inspection to determine a tampering or entry event.
4. Summary of Practice
4.1 A security seal shall be evaluated in accordance with its classification into one of five general groups and its performance
in the following six tests: pull (tensile) shear, bending, impact, low temperature impact, and high temperature pull (tensile).
4.2 A security seal shall receive a grade designation based upon its measured performance in each of the required tests. This
grade shall be obtained by testing five individual seals in each of the six specific tests. A minimum of 30 security seal specimens
shall be required to complete testing. The grade designation shall be determined by comparing the average value of the five test
results to the corresponding grade classification tables presented in this practice.
4.3 All tests shall be performed at ambient room temperature 65 6 5°F (18.3 6 2.8°C) unless otherwise indicated.
5. Seal Classification
5.1 General—For the purpose of defining the most appropriate test configuration of the security seal during tests, the security
seal shall be classified as an initial step in accordance with the groups defined in Classification F832.
5.2 For the purpose of comparing the physical properties of security seals, seals are grouped in accordance with the following
description of application seals:
5.2.1 Groups:
5.2.1.1 Group 1—Flexible cable and wire seals, which can be fixed or adjustable length.
5.2.1.2 Group 2—Strap and cinch seals.
5.2.1.3 Group 3—Rigid bolt and rod seals, including heavy duty metal padlock type.
5.2.1.4 Group 4—Twisted rod or wire seals (pigtail).
5.2.1.5 Group 5—Padlock type seals, scored seals, metal or plastic base.
5.3 If a particular security seal does not appear to fall into any of these general classifications, the closest description shall be
chosen by the user. The effectiveness of the testing procedures and relevance of the test data may be jeopardized by a faulty
NOTE 1—Pin diameter 0.250 in. (6.35 mm) for smallest cross section dimension less than or equal to 0.125 in. (318 mm).
NOTE 2—Pin diameter 0.500 in. (12.7 mm) for smallest cross section dimension greater than 0.125 in. (3.18 mm).
NOTE 3—Tolerance: 60.010 in. (0.254 mm).
FIG. 1 Schematic Drawings of Pull (Tensile) Test Fixture Requirements for Groups 1 and 2
F1157 − 04 (2015)
FIG. 2 Schematic Drawings of Pull (Tensile) Test Fixture Requirements for Group 3
FIG. 3 Schematic Drawings of Pull (Tensile) Test Fixture Requirements for Group 4
FIG. 4 Schematic Drawings of Pull (Tensile) Test Fixture Requirements for Group 5
classification choice. These general groupings shall be assigned the arbitrary numerical listing of one through five, respectively,
as shown in 5.2.1. The group number shall be documented with the test results.
5.4 The required performance levels in any test category shall not be affected by this general classification (see 5.2.1); only the
manner in which the seal is physically manipulated during subsequent testing shall be affected by this portion of the evaluation.
All seals shall be tested in a locked position using test fixtures appropriate for the seal group.
6. Test Procedures
6.1 Pull (Tensile) Test:
6.1.1 Apply a pull (tensile) load to the locked security seal in a direction opposite to the motion required to lock the seal. The
travel rate of the test shall be 2 6 1 in./min (5.08 6 2.54 cm/min).
6.1.2 Fixtures necessary to perform this test are determined by the group classification of the security seal. Figs. 1-4 show fixture
requirements for the classification groups. Possible fixture configurations are shown in Fig. 5.
6.1.2.1 Fixtures shall be designed such that applied stresses are within the elastic limit of the fixture material.
6.1.2.2 Fixtures shall be designed to eliminate any artificial influences upon the tested strength characteristics of the test
specimen.
F1157 − 04 (2015)
FIG. 5 Schematic Drawings of Possible Pull (Tensile) Test Fixture Configurations
NOTE 1—All dimensions are in inches (1 in. = 25.4 mm).
NOTE 2—See Performance Specification F883 for definition of cutter jaws.
FIG. 6 Fixture for Use in Shear Test for Security Seals (Patterned After Padlock Shackle Cutting Fixture in Performance Specification
F883)
6.1.3 Record the tensile value required to cause an open condition for each of the five test specimens. Assign the grade
designation in accordance with 4.2 and Table 1.
6.2 Shear Test:
6.2.1 Apply a shear force to the security seal specimen to measure its resistance to a severing action. The shear plane shall occur
at the security seal’s weakest section. The shear rate shall be 0.5 6 0.2 in./min (1.27 6 0.508 cm/min).
F1157 − 04 (2015)
NOTE 1—Hole through specimen holder shall not exceed 10 % of the cross section dimension(s) of specimen.
NOTE 2—Hardness of cutting jaw 60 to 62 Rockwell “C” scale.
NOTE 3—Cutting jaw shall remain parallel 60.005 in. (0.127 mm) to specimen holder.
NOTE 4—Tolerance 60.005 in. (0.127 mm) ; 60.01 in. (0.254 mm); 60.5°.
FIG. 7 Precision Shear Fixture for Use in Shear Test
FIG. 8 Schematic Drawing of Bending Test Fixture as Applied to
Groups 1 and 2
FIG. 9 Schematic Drawing of Bending Test Fixture as Applied to Groups 3 and 4
6.2.2 Fixtures necessary to perform this test are determined by the specimen’s cross-sectional dimensions, material, and
construction.
6.2.2.1 Fixtures shall be designed such that applied stresses are within the elastic limit of the fixture material.
6.2.2.2 Fixtures shall be designed to eliminate any artificial influences upon the tested strength characteristics of the test
specimen.
(1) Conduct shear tests with the shackle cutting fixture and blades defined in Performance Specification F883 (see Fig. 6).
(2) Conduct shear test with precise shear fixture defined in Fig. 7 if the fixture defined in 6.2.2.2(1) cannot sever the security
seal. The precision cutting fixture is designed for smaller cross sections and flexible materials. (Warning—Do not exceed a shear
force greater than 2000 lbf (8896 N). If a specimen does not sever during the application of 2001 lbf (8900 N), halt test and unload
test equipment. Record shear force of 2000 lbf (8896 N). Do not test specimen to failure. Sudden and violent rupture of the test
specimen can endanger personnel, equipment, and property.)
6.2.3 Record the shear force required to cause an open condition for each of the five test specimens. Assign the grade
designation in accordance with 4.2 and Table 2.
F1157 − 04 (2015)
FIG. 10 Schematic Drawing of Bending Test as Applied to Metallic Padlock Class 5 Security Seals
6.3 Bending Test:
6.3.1 Apply a moment to the security seal specimen to measure its resistance to a bending or twisting action. For the purpose
of the bending test, security seals are categorized as flexible (Groups 1 and 2), rigid (Groups 3 and 4), padlocks with metallic hasps
(Group 5), and padlocks with non-metallic hasps (Group 5).
6.3.2 Flexible security seals include cable and wire seals (Group 1), and strap and cinch seals (Group 2) and shall be subjected
to bending. Fig. 8 shows necessary fixture requirements.
6.3.2.1 Fixtures shall be designed such that applied stresses are within the elastic limit of the fixture material.
6.3.2.2 Fixtures shall be designed to eliminate any artificial influences upon the tested strength characteristics of the test
specimen.
6.3.2.3 The pre-test orientation shall be considered 0°. Bend the security seal from 0° to 90°. Reverse the motion and bend the
security seal from 90° to -90°, an arc of 180°. Repeat this 180° arc until the security seal exhibits an open condition.
6.3.2.4 Record the bending cycles required to cause an open condition for each of the five test specimens. A bending cycle is
defined as one complete arc of 180°. Assign the grade designation in accordance with 4.2 and Table 3.
6.3.3 Rigid security seals include rigid bolt, rod and heavy duty metal padlock security seals (Group 3), and twisted rod or wire
seals (Group 4), and shall be subjected to bending. Fig. 9 shows necessary fixture requirements.
6.3.3.1 Fixtures shall be designed such that applied stresses are within the elastic limit of the fixture material.
6.3.3.2 Fixtures shall be designed to eliminate any artificial influences upon the tested strength characteristics of the test
specimen.
6.3.3.3 The pre-test orientation shall be considered 0°. Bend the security seal and measure the moment necessary to bend from
0° to 90°. Reverse the applied bending and measure the moment necessary to cause a bend from 90° to 0°. Repeat this range of
motion, until the security seal exhibits an open condition. For calculation purposes, the moment arm is defined as the perpendicular
distance between line of action of the applied force and the point of bend.
6.3.3.4 Record the maximum bending moment required to cause an open condition for each of the five test specimens. Assign
the grade designation in accordance with 4.2 and Table 4.
6.3.4 Metallic hasp padlock security seals (Group 5) shall be subjected to a twisting or torsional moment. Fig. 10 shows
necessary fixture requirements.
6.3.4.1 Fixtures shall be designed such that applied stresses are within the elastic limit of the fixture material.
6.3.4.2 Fixtures shall be designed to eliminate any artificial influences upon the tested strength characteristics of the test
specimen.
6.3.4.3 Apply a moment to the security seal body until the seal exhibits an open condition.
6.3.4.4 Record the maximum moment required to cause an open condition for each of the five test specimens. Assign the grade
designation in accordance with 4.2 and Table 4.
6.3.5 Non-metallic hasp padlock security seals (Group 5) shall be subjected to a twisting or torsional moment. Fig. 11 shows
necessary fixture requirements.
6.
...