D20.09 - Specimen Preparation

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Injection Molding—In injection molding, the difference between the dimensions of a mold cavity and of the molded specimen may vary according to the design of the mold and operation of the molding process. Factors such as mold and melt temperature, fill times, and packing conditions are known to affect shrinkage significantly. Adherence to the specified mold design (see 7.1) and specifications outlined in Practice D3641 or ISO 294-4 or the appropriate material specification will improve the reproducibility of the test.  
5.2 Compression Molding—In compression molding, the difference between the dimensions of a mold cavity and of the molded specimen may vary according to the design of the mold and operation of the molding process. Factors, such as the amount of material in charge, cooling time, and pressure application are known to affect shrinkage significantly. Adherence to the specified mold design (see 7.2) and specifications outlined in Practice D4703 or ISO 293 or the appropriate material specifications will improve the reproducibility of the test.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method is intended to measure shrinkage from mold cavity to molded dimensions of thermoplastics when molded by compression or injection processes with specified process conditions.  
1.2 This test method covers shrinkage measurements at 24 and 48 hours.  
1.3 This method will give comparable data based on standard specimens and can not predict absolute values in actual molded parts with varying flow paths, wall thicknesses, pressure and temperature gradients and process conditions. Differences in mold shrinkage may also be observed among the three specimen geometries described in this test method.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are given for information only.  
1.5 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Note 1: This standard and ISO 294-3 are equivalent in the design of specimen D2. This test method is equivalent to ISO 294-4 where Type D2 specimens and the procedure in Appendix X2 are used.  
1.6 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 It is well known that plastic test specimens molded under different conditions can have significantly different properties. This practice is designed to minimize those differences by establishing operating protocols without being unnecessarily restrictive.  
5.2 Always refer to the ASTM material specification or ISO designation for the material for recommended molding conditions. If not available, consult the material supplier.  
5.3 This practice requires the use of adequate quantities of plastic material to find desirable operating conditions and to make the desired test specimens.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the general principles to be followed when injection molding test specimens of thermoplastic molding and extrusion materials. This practice is used to obtain uniformity in methods of describing the various steps of the injection molding process and to set up uniform methods of reporting these conditions. The exact conditions required to prepare suitable specimens will vary for each plastic material. Any requirements or recommendations in the material specification that differ from this standard take precedence over those in this standard. Always consult the referenced material document for specimen preparation. If no referenced document exists, then consult the material supplier for specimen preparation guidance and note such in the test report.  
1.2 The methodology presented assumes the use of reciprocating screw injection molding machines.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Note 1: This practice is equivalent to the following parts of ISO 294: Plastics—Injection Moulding of Test Specimens of Thermoplastic Materials; 294-1: Part 1—General Principles and Multipurpose Test Specimens (ISO Type A Mould) and Bars (ISO Type B Mould); ISO 294-2: Part 2—Small Tensile Bars (ISO Type C Mould); ISO 294-3: Part 3—Plates (ISO Type D Moulds).  
1.5 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
3.1 The properties of molded parts and the ease of producing satisfactory specimens are influenced by the temperature of the mold. It is desirable to know the actual mold temperature, which can differ from the mold temperature control medium.  
3.2 The user needs to be aware of temperature differences across the mold/thermocouple interface and at leads, and take appropriate precautions to minimize such differences.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice is intended for determining the temperature at a specified point or points on the surface of the cavity and base of a mold for plastics. By determining the temperature at as many points as deemed necessary, the overall temperature condition of the surface can be determined.  
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.3 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Note 1: There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard.  
1.4 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Compression Molding—In compression molding, the difference between the dimensions of a mold and of the molded article produced therein from a given material vary according to the design and operation of the mold. It is probable that shrinkage will approach a minimum where design and operation are such that a maximum of material is forced solidly into the mold cavity or some part of it, or where the molded article is hardened to a maximum while still under pressure, particularly by cooling. In contrast, shrinkages are higher where the charge must flow in the mold cavity but does not receive and transmit enough pressure to be forced firmly into all its recesses, or where the molded article is not fully hardened when discharged. The plasticity of the material used affects shrinkage insofar as it affects the retention and compression of the charge.  
4.2 Injection Molding—In injection molding, as in compression molding, the differences between the dimensions of the mold and of the molded article produced therein from a given material vary according to the design and operation of the mold. The differences vary with the type and size of molding machine, the thickness of molded sections, the degree and direction of flow or movement of material in the mold, the size of the nozzle, sprue, runner, and gate, the cycle on which the machine is operated, the temperature of the mold, and the length of time that follow-up pressure is maintained. As in the case of compression molding, shrinkages will approach a minimum where design and operation are such that a maximum of material is forced solidly into the mold cavity and where the molded article is hardened to a maximum while still under pressure as a result of the use of a runner, sprue, and nozzle of proper size, along with proper dwell. As in compression molding, shrinkages are higher where the charge must flow in the mold cavity but does not receive and transmit enough pressure to be forced firmly into all of the recesses...
SCOPE
1.1 This test method is intended to measure shrinkage from mold cavity to molded dimensions of thermosetting plastics when molded by compression, injection, or transfer under specified conditions.  
1.2 This test method provides for the measurement of shrinkage of thermosetting plastics from their molds both initially (within 16 to 72 h of molding) and after aging (post–shrinkage at elevated temperatures).  
1.3 This method will give comparable data based on standard specimens and can not predict absolute values in actual molded parts with varying flow paths, wall thicknesses, pressure gradiants and process conditions. Differences in mold shrinkage generally is observed between the specimen geometries described in this test method.  
1.4 Knowledge of the initial shrinkage of plastics is important for the construction of molds and knowledge of post molding shrinkage is important for determining the suitability of the molding material for manufacturing thermosetting plastic components with accurate dimensions.  
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.6 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Note 1: This test method and ISO 2577-1984 are equivalent when bars of 120 mm length, 15 mm width, and 10 mm thickness are used for compression molding; or flat, square plaques approximately 120 by 120 by 4 mm are used for injection molding.  
1.7 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...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The conditions at which compounds are molded are known to influence the properties of the specimens. The degree of cure, elimination of knit-lines between particles, density of the part, and degradation of the polymer are among those factors which will be affected by the molding conditions. Thus it is important to conform to a standard set of conditions in order to have a valid comparison of properties between different compounds and different batches of the same compound.  
5.2 Molded specimens showing evidence of low-density areas due to trapped gases shall be discarded. A breathe step can be incorporated to eliminate this situation. If used, it is critical that the breathe step be as brief as possible to avoid precuring of the compound before full pressure is applied leading to poorly “knitted” areas and lower strength in the molded specimen.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the general principles to be followed when compression molding test specimens of thermosetting molding compounds, such as phenolics, aminoplastics, melamine phenolics, epoxies, and unsaturated polyesters.  
1.2 Molding conditions are given for amino, phenolic, and allyl molding compounds. The exact molding conditions will vary from material to material, and, if not incorporated in the material specification, shall be agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier or determined by previous experience with the particular type of material being used  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values in parentheses are given for information only.  
1.4 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Note 1: This standard and ISO 295 address the same subject matter, but differ in technical content.  
1.5 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This practice is subject to the definition of injection molding given in 3.1.2 with the further provision that with in-line screw injection the plastic compound, heated in a chamber by conduction and friction, is fluxed by the action of a reciprocating screw and then is forced into a hot mold where it solidifies. Hereafter, in-line screw-injection molding will be referred to simply as injection molding.  
4.2 The mold referenced in this section (see Fig. 1) is generally useful, and describes what have been the most common specimens required for the testing of thermosets. ISO specimens and testing are gaining favor, however. Practice D3641 and ISO 10724 describe the layout and practice for injection molding the multi-purpose specimens in accordance with ISO 3167.
FIG. 1 Five-Cavity Transfer Mold for Thermosetting Plastic Test Specimens (Steam Cores Not Shown)  
Note 1: Thermometer wells shall be 8 mm (5/16 in.) in diameter to permit use of a readily available thermometer.  
4.3 Typically, injection-molded test specimens are made with shorter cycles than those used for similar moldings made by compression, and the cycle is equal to or faster than that for transfer molding.  
4.4 Breathing of the mold is not usually required to release trapped volatile material as the gas is free to flow from the vent end of the mold. This is particularly advantageous for heat-resistant compounds and reduces the tendency for molded specimens to blister at high exposure temperatures.  
4.5 Injection molding is intended for low-viscosity compounds. One set of processing parameters cannot be specified for all types of thermosetting materials, nor for samples of the same material having different plasticities.  
4.6 Materials containing fibrous fillers such as glass roving, chopped cloth, or cellulosic fibers can be injection molded, but their properties will be affected depending upon how much fiber breakdown occurs as the compound is worked by the screw and as it passes thro...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the general principles to be followed when injection molding test specimens of thermosetting materials. It is to be used to obtain uniformity in methods of describing the various steps of the injection molding process and in the reporting of those conditions. The exact molding conditions will vary from material to material, and if not incorporated in the material specification, shall be agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier or determined by previous experience with the particular type of material being used and its plasticity.
Note 1: The utility of this practice has been demonstrated for the molding of thermosetting molding compounds exhibiting lower-viscosity non-Newtonian flow.  
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.3 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This practice assumes the use of reciprocating screw injection molding machines.
Note 2: This standard and ISO 10724 address the same subject matter, but differ in technical content.  
1.5 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Transfer molding is particularly suited to thermosetting materials of intermediate plasticity. Fixed molding parameters cannot be specified for each type of material. Molding compounds of the same type come in many different plasticities measured in accordance with Test Methods D3123 and D3795. Consequently, for a given material type, the molding parameters required to produce satisfactory test specimens will often vary dependent on the plasticity of the specific material grade.  
4.2 The mold shown in this practice provides for a set of five specimens. However, if only certain specimens are desired, the other cavities can be blocked by inserting gate blanks.  
4.3 Typically, breathing of the mold is not required to release trapped volatile matter as the gas is free to flow from the vent end of the mold. This is a particular advantage for heat-resistant compounds and reduces the tendency for molded specimens to blister at high exposure temperatures.  
4.4 Flow and knit lines in a molded piece are often sites of mechanical or electrical weakness and can be found in some degree of severity throughout the molded piece. The semisolid molding compound passing through the gate is subject to non-Newtonian flow and, consequently, wrinkles and folds as it travels down the mold cavity. Fibers and other reinforcements in the molding compound align with the flow pattern and, consequently, can orient perpendicular to the axis of the bar at the center and parallel at the surface of the bar. Mold temperature, thermal conductivity and plasticity of the molding compound, degree of preheat, and plunger pressure are parameters that influence the time to fill the mold cavities and the formation of knit lines.
Note 3: If the temperature of the mold is held constant and the plunger pressure varied for a designated thermosetting molding compound, two extreme characteristic conditions can be obtained. If the pressure is low, then the vent end of the cavity will not fully fill, and...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers a general procedure for the transfer molding of mechanical and electrical test specimens of thermosetting molding materials.
Note 1: The utility of this practice has been demonstrated for the molding of thermosetting molding compounds exhibiting intermediate viscosity non-Newtonian flow.  
1.2 The values stated in either SI or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not always exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems can result in nonconformance with this practice.  
1.3 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.
Note 2: There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard.  
1.4 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The methods by which sample materials are prepared and molded influence the mechanical properties of the specimen. Unlike injection molding, the objective of compression molding is to produce test specimens or sheets that are both homogeneous and isotropic. Specimens can be molded from powder or pellets such as are received directly from a material manufacturer, particles produced in a recycle recovery operation, or from a milled preform or sheet prepared on a two-roll mill. The powder, pellets, particles, preform, or sheet are melted and molded in a mold designed to produce a finished specimen of a given geometry, size, and thickness, or melted and molded in the form of a smooth plaque or sheet of uniform thickness from which desired specimens are cut, punched, or machined. Working a compound on a two-roll mill prior to molding will disperse and distribute the compound additives in a manner that will affect the physical properties of the compound. The relevant material specification or the material manufacturer shall be consulted to determine the need for milling a sample prior to compression molding. It is important to treat different samples of the same type of material in the same way: if milling was done prior to molding on a material which is to be used as a standard for comparison, all new materials to be tested against this practice shall be prepared and molded in a similar manner.  
4.2 The apparatus and exact conditions required to prepare adequate specimens will usually vary for each plastic material. Apparatus and procedures satisfactory for molding many different plastic materials are given in this practice in Sections 5 and 6. The apparatus and procedures which have been found satisfactory for molding certain specific materials are given in the Appendixes. In any case, the specific apparatus and procedures to be used in producing compression-molded specimens of a given material shall be obtained by reference to the relevant material specification ...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the compression molding of thermoplastic granules and milled stock for the preparation of test specimens.2  
1.2 While conditions for certain materials are given, the primary source of specific conditions shall be the material specification standards for each type of material.  
1.3 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.4 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.
Note 1: The main body of this practice is equivalent to ISO 293-1986. Annex A1 and ISO 293-1986 differ in some details; however, specimens prepared using Annex A1, Procedure A should be equivalent to those prepared using ISO 293-1986, Cooling Method D. Specimens prepared using Annex A1, Procedure C should be equivalent to those prepared using ISO 293-1986, Cooling Method B. However, due to the greater cooling rate tolerances of the ISO standard, specimens prepared in accordance with ISO Cooling Method B may not be equivalent to Annex A1, Procedure C.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 It is well known that plastic test specimens molded under different conditions can have significantly different properties. This practice is designed to minimize those differences by establishing operating protocols without being unnecessarily restrictive.  
5.2 Always refer to the ASTM material specification or ISO designation for the material for recommended molding conditions. If not available, consult the material supplier.  
5.3 This practice requires the use of adequate quantities of plastic material to find desirable operating conditions and to make the desired test specimens.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the general principles to be followed when injection molding test specimens of thermoplastic molding and extrusion materials. This practice is to be used to obtain uniformity in methods of describing the various steps of the injection molding process and to set up uniform methods of reporting these conditions. The exact conditions required to prepare suitable specimens will vary for each plastic material. Any requirements or recommendations in the material specification that differ from this standard take precedence over those in this standard. Always consult the referenced material document for specimen preparation. If no referenced document exists, then consult the material supplier for specimen preparation guidance and note such in the test report.  
1.2 The methodology presented assumes the use of reciprocating screw injection molding machines.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4 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.
Note 1: This practice is equivalent to the following parts of ISO 294: Plastics—Injection Moulding of Test Specimens of Thermoplastic Materials; 294-1: Part 1—General Principles and Multipurpose Test Specimens (ISO Type A Mould) and Bars (ISO Type B Mould); ISO 294-2: Part 2—Small Tensile Bars (ISO Type C Mould); ISO 294-3: Part 3—Plates (ISO Type D Moulds).

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Injection Molding—In injection molding, the difference between the dimensions of a mold cavity and of the molded specimen may vary according to the design of the mold and operation of the molding process. Factors such as mold and melt temperature, fill times, and packing conditions are known to affect shrinkage significantly. Adherence to the specified mold design (see 7.1) and specifications outlined in Practice D3641 or ISO 294-4 or the appropriate material specification will improve the reproducibility of the test.  
5.2 Compression Molding—In compression molding, the difference between the dimensions of a mold cavity and of the molded specimen may vary according to the design of the mold and operation of the molding process. Factors, such as the amount of material in charge, cooling time, and pressure application are known to affect shrinkage significantly. Adherence to the specified mold design (see 7.2) and specifications outlined in Practice D4703 or ISO 293 or the appropriate material specifications will improve the reproducibility of the test.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method is intended to measure shrinkage from mold cavity to molded dimensions of thermoplastics when molded by compression or injection processes with specified process conditions.  
1.2 This test method covers shrinkage measurements at 24 and 48 hours.  
1.3 This method will give comparable data based on standard specimens and can not predict absolute values in actual molded parts with varying flow paths, wall thicknesses, pressure and temperature gradients and process conditions. Differences in mold shrinkage may also be observed among the three specimen geometries described in this test method.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are given for information only.  
1.5 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.
Note 1: This standard and ISO 294-3 are equivalent in the design of specimen D2. This test method is equivalent to ISO 294-4 where Type D2 specimens and the procedure in Appendix X2 are used.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 It is well known that plastic test specimens molded under different conditions can have significantly different properties. This practice is designed to minimize those differences by establishing operating protocols without being unnecessarily restrictive.  
5.2 Always refer to the ASTM material specification or ISO designation for the material for recommended molding conditions. If not available, consult the material supplier.  
5.3 This practice requires the use of adequate quantities of plastic material to find desirable operating conditions and to make the desired test specimens.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the general principles to be followed when injection molding test specimens of thermoplastic molding and extrusion materials. This practice is to be used to obtain uniformity in methods of describing the various steps of the injection molding process and to set up uniform methods of reporting these conditions. The exact conditions required to prepare suitable specimens will vary for each plastic material. Any requirements or recommendations in the material specification that differ from this standard take precedence over those in this standard. Always consult the referenced material document for specimen preparation. If no referenced document exists, then consult the material supplier for specimen preparation guidance and note such in the test report.  
1.2 The methodology presented assumes the use of reciprocating screw injection molding machines.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4 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. Note 1—This practice is equivalent to the following parts of ISO 294: Plastics—Injection Moulding of Test Specimens of Thermoplastic Materials; 294-1: Part 1—General Principles and Multipurpose Test Specimens (ISO Type A Mould) and Bars (ISO Type B Mould); ISO 294-2: Part 2—Small Tensile Bars (ISO Type C Mould); ISO 294-3: Part 3—Plates (ISO Type D Moulds).

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Compression Molding—In compression molding, the difference between the dimensions of a mold and of the molded article produced therein from a given material vary according to the design and operation of the mold. It is probable that shrinkage will approach a minimum where design and operation are such that a maximum of material is forced solidly into the mold cavity or some part of it, or where the molded article is hardened to a maximum while still under pressure, particularly by cooling. In contrast, shrinkages are higher where the charge must flow in the mold cavity but does not receive and transmit enough pressure to be forced firmly into all its recesses, or where the molded article is not fully hardened when discharged. The plasticity of the material used affects shrinkage insofar as it affects the retention and compression of the charge.  
4.2 Injection Molding—In injection molding, as in compression molding, the differences between the dimensions of the mold and of the molded article produced therein from a given material vary according to the design and operation of the mold. The differences vary with the type and size of molding machine, the thickness of molded sections, the degree and direction of flow or movement of material in the mold, the size of the nozzle, sprue, runner, and gate, the cycle on which the machine is operated, the temperature of the mold, and the length of time that follow-up pressure is maintained. As in the case of compression molding, shrinkages will approach a minimum where design and operation are such that a maximum of material is forced solidly into the mold cavity and where the molded article is hardened to a maximum while still under pressure as a result of the use of a runner, sprue, and nozzle of proper size, along with proper dwell. As in compression molding, shrinkages are higher where the charge must flow in the mold cavity but does not receive and transmit enough pressure to be forced firmly into all of the recesses...
SCOPE
1.1 This test method is intended to measure shrinkage from mold cavity to molded dimensions of thermosetting plastics when molded by compression, injection, or transfer under specified conditions.  
1.2 This test method provides for the measurement of shrinkage of thermosetting plastics from their molds both initially (within 16 to 72 h of molding) and after aging (post–shrinkage at elevated temperatures).  
1.3 This method will give comparable data based on standard specimens and can not predict absolute values in actual molded parts with varying flow paths, wall thicknesses, pressure gradiants and process conditions. Differences in mold shrinkage generally is observed between the specimen geometries described in this test method.  
1.4 Knowledge of the initial shrinkage of plastics is important for the construction of molds and knowledge of post molding shrinkage is important for determining the suitability of the molding material for manufacturing thermosetting plastic components with accurate dimensions.  
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.6 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.Note 1—This test method and ISO 2577-1984 are equivalent when bars of 120 mm length, 15 mm width, and 10 mm thickness are used for compression molding; or flat, square plaques approximately 120 by 120 by 4 mm are used for injection molding.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
3.1 The properties of molded parts and the ease of producing satisfactory specimens are influenced by the temperature of the mold. It is desirable to know the actual mold temperature, which can differ from the mold temperature control medium.  
3.2 The user needs to be aware of temperature differences across the mold/thermocouple interface and at leads, and take appropriate precautions to minimize such differences.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice is intended for determining the temperature at a specified point or points on the surface of the cavity and base of a mold for plastics. By determining the temperature at as many points as deemed necessary, the overall temperature condition of the surface can be determined.  
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.3 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.Note 1—There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
It is well known that plastic test specimens molded under different conditions can have significantly different properties. This practice is designed to minimize those differences by establishing operating protocols without being unnecessarily restrictive.
Always refer to the ASTM material specification or ISO designation for the material for recommended molding conditions. If not available, consult the material supplier.
This practice requires the use of adequate quantities of plastic material to find desirable operating conditions and to make the desired test specimens.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the general principles to be followed when injection molding test specimens of thermoplastic molding and extrusion materials. This practice is to be used to obtain uniformity in methods of describing the various steps of the injection molding process and to set up uniform methods of reporting these conditions. The exact conditions required to prepare suitable specimens will vary for each plastic material. Any requirements or recommendations in the material specification which differ from this standard take precedence over those in this standard.
1.2 The methodology presented assumes the use of reciprocating screw injection molding machines.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4 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.
Note 1—This practice is equivalent to the following parts of ISO 294: PlasticsInjection Moulding of Test Specimens of Thermoplastic Materials; 294-1: Part 1General Principles and Multipurpose Test Specimens (ISO Type A Mould) and Bars (ISO Type B Mould); ISO 294-2: Part 2Small Tensile Bars (ISO Type C Mould); ISO 294-3: Part 3Plates (ISO Type D Moulds).

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
The conditions at which compounds are molded are known to influence the properties of the specimens. The degree of cure, elimination of knit-lines between particles, density of the part, and degradation of the polymer are among those factors which will be affected by the molding conditions. Thus it is important to conform to a standard set of conditions in order to have a valid comparison of properties between different compounds and different batches of the same compound.
Molded specimens showing evidence of low-density areas due to trapped gases shall be discarded. A breathe step can be incorporated to eliminate this situation. If used, it is critical that the breathe step be as brief as possible to avoid precuring of the compound before full pressure is applied leading to poorly “knitted” areas and lower strength in the molded specimen.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the general principles to be followed when compression molding test specimens of thermosetting molding compounds, such as phenolics, aminoplastics, melamine phenolics, epoxies, and unsaturated polyesters.
1.2 Molding conditions are given for amino, phenolic, and allyl molding compounds. The exact molding conditions will vary from material to material, and, if not incorporated in the material specification, shall be agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier or determined by previous experience with the particular type of material being used
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values in parentheses are given for information only.
1.4 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.
Note 1—This standard and ISO 295 address the same subject matter, but differ in technical content.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
This practice is subject to the definition of injection molding given in 3.1.2 with the further provision that with in-line screw injection the plastic compound, heated in a chamber by conduction and friction, is fluxed by the action of a reciprocating screw and then is forced into a hot mold where it solidifies. Hereafter, in-line screw-injection molding will be referred to simply as injection molding.
The mold referenced in this section (see Fig. 1) is generally useful, and describes what have been the most common specimens required for the testing of thermosets. ISO specimens and testing are gaining favor, however. Practice D3641 and ISO 10724 describe the layout and practice for injection molding the multi-purpose specimens in accordance with ISO 3167.
Typically, injection-molded test specimens are made with shorter cycles than those used for similar moldings made by compression, and the cycle is equal to or faster than that for transfer molding.
Breathing of the mold is not usually required to release trapped volatile material as the gas is free to flow from the vent end of the mold. This is particularly advantageous for heat-resistant compounds and reduces the tendency for molded specimens to blister at high exposure temperatures.
Injection molding is intended for low-viscosity compounds. One set of processing parameters cannot be specified for all types of thermosetting materials, nor for samples of the same material having different plasticities.
Materials containing fibrous fillers such as glass roving, chopped cloth, or cellulosic fibers can be injection molded, but their properties will be affected depending upon how much fiber breakdown occurs as the compound is worked by the screw and as it passes through the system of runners and gates. The orientation of the fibers in the molded specimen will also affect injection-molded properties.
Flow and knit lines in a molded piece are often sites of mechanical or electrical weakness. The fluxed mater...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the general principles to be followed when injection molding test specimens of thermosetting materials. It is to be used to obtain uniformity in methods of describing the various steps of the injection molding process and in the reporting of those conditions. The exact molding conditions will vary from material to material, and if not incorporated in the material specification, shall be agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier or determined by previous experience with the particular type of material being used and its plasticity.
Note 1—The utility of this practice has been demonstrated for the molding of thermosetting molding compounds exhibiting lower-viscosity non-Newtonian flow.  
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, 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.
1.4 This practice assumes the use of reciprocating screw injection molding machines.
Note 2—This standard and ISO 10724 address the same subject matter, but differ in technical content.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
The methods by which sample materials are prepared and molded influence the mechanical properties of the specimen. Unlike injection molding, the objective of compression molding is to produce test specimens or sheets that are both homogeneous and isotropic. Molded specimens may be made from powder or pellets such as are received directly from a material manufacturer, particles produced in a recycle recovery operation, or from a milled preform or sheet prepared on a two-roll mill. The powder, pellets, particles, preform, or sheet are melted and molded in a mold designed to produce a finished specimen of a given geometry, size, and thickness, or melted and molded in the form of a smooth plaque or sheet of uniform thickness from which desired specimens are cut, punched, or machined. Working a compound on a two-roll mill prior to molding will disperse and distribute the compound additives in a manner that will affect the physical properties of the compound. The need for milling a sample prior to compression molding may be determined by reference to the relevant material specification or the material manufacturer. It is important to treat different samples of the same type of material in the same way: if milling was done prior to molding on a material which is to be used as a standard for comparison, all new materials to be tested against this practice should be prepared and molded in a similar manner.
The apparatus and exact conditions required to prepare adequate specimens may vary for each plastic material. Apparatus and procedures which should be satisfactory for molding many different plastic materials are given in this practice in Sections 5 and 6. The apparatus and procedures which have been found satisfactory for molding certain specific materials are given in the Appendix. In any case, the apparatus and procedures to be used in producing compression-molded specimens of a given material may be obtained by reference to the relevant material specification and sho...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the general principles to be followed when injection molding test specimens of thermoplastic molding and extrusion materials. This practice is to be used to obtain uniformity in methods of describing the various steps of the injection molding process and to set up uniform methods of reporting these conditions. The exact conditions required to prepare suitable specimens will vary for each plastic material. Those conditions shall become a part of the specification for the material, or be agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier. Any requirements or recommendations in the material specification which differ from this standard take precedence over those in this standard.
1.2 The methodology presented assumes the use of reciprocating screw injection molding machines.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4 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.
Note 1—This practice is equivalent to the following parts of ISO 294: PlasticsInjection Moulding of Test Specimens of Thermoplastic Materials; 294-1: Part 1General Principles and Multipurpose Test Specimens (ISO Type A Mould) and Bars (ISO Type B Mould); ISO 294-2: Part 2Small Tensile Bars (ISO Type C Mould); ISO 294-3: Part 3Plates (ISO Type D Moulds).

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
It is well known that plastic test specimens molded under different conditions can have significantly different properties. This practice is designed to minimize those differences by establishing operating protocols without being unnecessarily restrictive.
Always refer to the ASTM material specification or ISO designation for the material for recommended molding conditions. If not available, consult the material supplier.
This practice requires the use of adequate quantities of plastic material to find desirable operating conditions and to make the desired test specimens.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the general principles to be followed when injection molding test specimens of thermoplastic molding and extrusion materials. This practice is to be used to obtain uniformity in methods of describing the various steps of the injection molding process and to set up uniform methods of reporting these conditions. The exact conditions required to prepare suitable specimens will vary for each plastic material. Those conditions should become a part of the specification for the material, or be agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier. Any requirements or recommendations in the material specification which differ from this standard take precedence over those in this standard.
1.2 The methodology presented assumes the use of reciprocating screw injection molding machines.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4 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.
Note 1—This practice is equivalent to the following parts of ISO 294: PlasticsInjection Moulding of Test Specimens of Thermoplastic Materials; 294-1: Part 1General Principles and Multipurpose Test Specimens (ISO Type A Mould) and Bars (ISO Type B Mould); ISO 294-2: Part 2Small Tensile Bars (ISO Type C Mould); ISO 294-3: Part 3Plates (ISO Type D Moulds).

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
Transfer molding is particularly suited to thermosetting materials of intermediate plasticity. Fixed molding parameters cannot be specified for each type of material. Molding compounds of the same type come in many different plasticities measured in accordance with Test Methods D3123 and D3795. Consequently, for a given material type, the molding parameters required to produce satisfactory test specimens will often vary dependent on the plasticity of the specific material grade.
The mold shown in this practice provides for a set of five specimens. However, if only certain specimens are desired, the other cavities can be blocked by inserting gate blanks.
Typically, breathing of the mold is not required to release trapped volatile matter as the gas is free to flow from the vent end of the mold. This is a particular advantage for heat-resistant compounds and reduces the tendency for molded specimens to blister at high exposure temperatures.
Flow and knit lines in a molded piece are often sites of mechanical or electrical weakness and can be found in some degree of severity throughout the molded piece. The semisolid molding compound passing through the gate is subject to non-Newtonian flow and, consequently, wrinkles and folds as it travels down the mold cavity. Fibers and other reinforcements in the molding compound align with the flow pattern and, consequently, can orient perpendicular to the axis of the bar at the center and parallel at the surface of the bar. Mold temperature, thermal conductivity and plasticity of the molding compound, degree of preheat, and plunger pressure are parameters that influence the time to fill the mold cavities and the formation of knit lines.
Note 3—If the temperature of the mold is held constant and the plunger pressure varied for a designated thermosetting molding compound, two extreme characteristic conditions can be obtained. If the pressure is low, then the vent end of the cavity will not fully fill, and weld lines will fo...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers a general procedure for the transfer molding of mechanical and electrical test specimens of thermosetting molding materials.
Note 1—The utility of this practice has been demonstrated for the molding of thermosetting molding compounds exhibiting intermediate viscosity non-Newtonian flow.  
1.2 The values stated in either SI or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not always exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems can result in nonconformance with this practice.
1.3 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.
Note 2—There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
It is well known that plastic test specimens molded under different conditions can have significantly different properties. This practice is designed to minimize those differences by establishing operating protocols without being unnecessarily restrictive.
Always refer to the ASTM material specification or ISO designation for the material for recommended molding conditions. If not available, consult the material supplier.
This practice requires the use of adequate quantities of plastic material to find desirable operating conditions and to make the desired test specimens.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the general principles to be followed when injection molding test specimens of thermoplastic molding and extrusion materials. This practice is to be used to obtain uniformity in methods of describing the various steps of the injection molding process and to set up uniform methods of reporting these conditions. The exact conditions required to prepare suitable specimens will vary for each plastic material. Those conditions should become a part of the specification for the material, or be agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier. Any requirements or recommendations in the material specification which differ from this standard take precedence over those in this standard.
1.2 The methodology presented assumes the use of reciprocating screw injection molding machines.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4 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.
Note 1—This practice is equivalent to the following parts of ISO 294: PlasticsInjection Moulding of Test Specimens of Thermoplastic Materials; 294-1: Part 1General Principles and Multipurpose Test Specimens (ISO Type A Mould) and Bars (ISO Type B Mould); ISO 294-2: Part 2Small Tensile Bars (ISO Type C Mould); ISO 294-3: Part 3Plates (ISO Type D Moulds).

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
The methods by which sample materials are prepared and molded influence the mechanical properties of the specimen. Unlike injection molding, the objective of compression molding is to produce test specimens or sheets that are both homogeneous and isotropic. Molded specimens may be made from powder or pellets such as are received directly from a material manufacturer, particles produced in a recycle recovery operation, or from a milled preform or sheet prepared on a two-roll mill. The powder, pellets, particles, preform, or sheet are melted and molded in a mold designed to produce a finished specimen of a given geometry, size, and thickness, or melted and molded in the form of a smooth plaque or sheet of uniform thickness from which desired specimens are cut, punched, or machined. Working a compound on a two-roll mill prior to molding will disperse and distribute the compound additives in a manner that will affect the physical properties of the compound. The need for milling a sample prior to compression molding may be determined by reference to the relevant material specification or the material manufacturer. It is important to treat different samples of the same type of material in the same way: if milling was done prior to molding on a material which is to be used as a standard for comparison, all new materials to be tested against this practice should be prepared and molded in a similar manner.
The apparatus and exact conditions required to prepare adequate specimens may vary for each plastic material. Apparatus and procedures which should be satisfactory for molding many different plastic materials are given in this practice in Sections 5 and 6. The apparatus and procedures which have been found satisfactory for molding certain specific materials are given in the Appendix. In any case, the apparatus and procedures to be used in producing compression-molded specimens of a given material may be obtained by reference to the relevant material specification and sho...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the compression molding of thermoplastic granules and milled stock for the preparation of test specimens.  
1.2 While conditions for certain materials are given, the primary source of specific conditions shall be the material specification standards for each type of material.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4 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.
Note 1—The main body of this practice is equivalent to ISO 293-1986. Annex A1 and ISO 293-1986 differ in some details; however, specimens prepared using Annex A1, Procedure A should be equivalent to those prepared using ISO 293-1986, Cooling Method D. Specimens prepared using Annex A1, Procedure C should be equivalent to those prepared using ISO 293-1986, Cooling Method B. However, due to the greater cooling rate tolerances of the ISO standard, specimens prepared in accordance with ISO Cooling Method B may not be equivalent to Annex A1, Procedure C.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
Transfer molding is particularly suited to thermosetting materials of intermediate plasticity. Fixed molding parameters cannot be specified for each type of material. Molding compounds of the same type come in many different plasticities measured in accordance with Test Methods D731, D3123, and D3795. Consequently, for a given material type, the molding parameters required to produce satisfactory test specimens will often vary dependent on the plasticity of the specific material grade.
The mold shown in this practice provides for a set of five specimens. However, if only certain specimens are desired, the other cavities can be blocked by inserting gate blanks.
Typically, breathing of the mold is not required to release trapped volatile matter as the gas is free to flow from the vent end of the mold. This is a particular advantage for heat-resistant compounds and reduces the tendency for molded specimens to blister at high exposure temperatures.
Flow and knit lines in a molded piece are often sites of mechanical or electrical weakness and can be found in some degree of severity throughout the molded piece. The semisolid molding compound passing through the gate is subject to non-Newtonian flow and, consequently, wrinkles and folds as it travels down the mold cavity. Fibers and other reinforcements in the molding compound align with the flow pattern and, consequently, can orient perpendicular to the axis of the bar at the center and parallel at the surface of the bar. Mold temperature, thermal conductivity and plasticity of the molding compound, degree of preheat, and plunger pressure are parameters that influence the time to fill the mold cavities and the formation of knit lines.
Note 3—If the temperature of the mold is held constant and the plunger pressure varied for a designated thermosetting molding compound, two extreme characteristic conditions can be obtained. If the pressure is low, then the vent end of the cavity will not fully fill, and weld lines ...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers a general procedure for the transfer molding of mechanical and electrical test specimens of thermosetting molding materials.
Note 1—The utility of this practice has been demonstrated for the molding of thermosetting molding compounds exhibiting intermediate viscosity non-Newtonian flow.  
1.2 The values stated in either SI or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not always exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with this practice.
1.3 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.
Note 2—There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
Injection Molding—In injection molding, the difference between the dimensions of a mold cavity and of the molded specimen may vary according to the design of the mold and operation of the molding process. Factors such as mold and melt temperature, fill times, and packing conditions are known to affect shrinkage significantly. Adherence to the specified mold design (see 7.1) and specifications outlined in Practice D 3641 or ISO 294-4 or the appropriate material specification will improve the reproducibility of the test.
Compression Molding—In compression molding, the difference between the dimensions of a mold cavity and of the molded specimen may vary according to the design of the mold and operation of the molding process. Factors, such as the amount of material in charge, cooling time, and pressure application are known to affect shrinkage significantly. Adherence to the specified mold design (see 7.2) and specifications outlined in Practice D 4703 or ISO 293 or the appropriate material specifications will improve the reproducibility of the test.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method is intended to measure shrinkage from mold cavity to molded dimensions of thermoplastics when molded by compression or injection processes with specified process conditions.
1.2 This test method covers shrinkage measurements at 24 and 48 h.
1.3 This method will give comparable data based on standard specimens and can not predict absolute values in actual molded parts with varying flow paths, wall thicknesses, pressure and temperature gradients and process conditions. Differences in mold shrinkage may also be observed among the three specimen geometries described in this test method.
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are given for information only.
1.5 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.
Note 1—This standard and ISO 294-3 are equivalent in the design of specimen D2. This test method is equivalent to ISO 294-4 where Type D2 specimens and the procedure in Appendix X2 are used.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
Compression Molding—In compression molding, the difference between the dimensions of a mold and of the molded article produced therein from a given material vary according to the design and operation of the mold. It is probable that shrinkage will approach a minimum where design and operation are such that a maximum of material is forced solidly into the mold cavity or some part of it, or where the molded article is hardened to a maximum while still under pressure, particularly by cooling. In contrast, shrinkages are higher where the charge must flow in the mold cavity but does not receive and transmit enough pressure to be forced firmly into all its recesses, or where the molded article is not fully hardened when discharged. The plasticity of the material used affects shrinkage insofar as it affects the retention and compression of the charge.
Injection Molding—In injection molding, as in compression molding, the differences between the dimensions of the mold and of the molded article produced therein from a given material vary according to the design and operation of the mold. The differences vary with the type and size of molding machine, the thickness of molded sections, the degree and direction of flow or movement of material in the mold, the size of the nozzle, sprue, runner, and gate, the cycle on which the machine is operated, the temperature of the mold, and the length of time that follow-up pressure is maintained. As in the case of compression molding, shrinkages will approach a minimum where design and operation are such that a maximum of material is forced solidly into the mold cavity and where the molded article is hardened to a maximum while still under pressure as a result of the use of a runner, sprue, and nozzle of proper size, along with proper dwell. As in compression molding, shrinkages are higher where the charge must flow in the mold cavity but does not receive and transmit enough pressure to be forced firmly into all of the recesses of the m...
SCOPE
1.1 This test method is intended to measure shrinkage from mold cavity to molded dimensions of thermosetting plastics when molded by compression, injection, or transfer under specified conditions.
1.2 This test method provides for the measurement of shrinkage of thermosetting plastics from their molds both initially (within 16 to 72 h of molding) and as they age (post–shrinkage at elevated temperatures).
1.3 This method will give comparable data based on standard specimens and can not predict absolute values in actual molded parts with varying flow paths, wall thicknesses, pressure gradiants and process conditions. Differences in mold shrinkage generally is observed between the specimen geometries described in this test method.
1.4 Knowledge of the initial shrinkage of plastics is important for the construction of molds and knowledge of post molding shrinkage is important for determining the suitability of the molding material for manufacturing thermosetting plastic components with accurate dimensions.
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.6 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.
Note 1—This test method and ISO 2577-1984 are equivalent when bars of 120 mm length, 15 mm width, and 10 mm thickness are used for compression molding; or flat, square plaques approximately 120 by 120 by 4 mm are used for injection molding.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
The methods by which sample materials are prepared and molded influence the mechanical properties of the specimen. Unlike injection molding, the objective of compression molding is to produce test specimens or sheets that are both homogeneous and isotropic. Molded specimens may be made from powder or pellets such as are received directly from a material manufacturer, particles produced in a recycle recovery operation, or from a milled preform or sheet prepared on a two-roll mill. The powder, pellets, particles, preform, or sheet are melted and molded in a mold designed to produce a finished specimen of a given geometry, size, and thickness, or melted and molded in the form of a smooth plaque or sheet of uniform thickness from which desired specimens are cut, punched, or machined. Working a compound on a two-roll mill prior to molding will disperse and distribute the compound additives in a manner that will affect the physical properties of the compound. The need for milling a sample prior to compression molding may be determined by reference to the relevant material specification or the material manufacturer. It is important to treat different samples of the same type of material in the same way: if milling was done prior to molding on a material which is to be used as a standard for comparison, all new materials to be tested against this practice should be prepared and molded in a similar manner.
The apparatus and exact conditions required to prepare adequate specimens may vary for each plastic material. Apparatus and procedures which should be satisfactory for molding many different plastic materials are given in this practice in Sections 5 and 6. The apparatus and procedures which have been found satisfactory for molding certain specific materials are given in the Appendix. In any case, the apparatus and procedures to be used in producing compression-molded specimens of a given material may be obtained by reference to the relevant material specification and sho...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the compression molding of thermoplastic granules and milled stock for the preparation of test specimens.
1.2 While conditions for certain materials are given, the primary source of specific conditions shall be the material specification standards for each type of material.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in brackets are for information only.
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.Note 1
The main body of this practice is equivalent to ISO 293-1986. and ISO 293-1986 differ in some details; however, specimens prepared using , Procedure A should be equivalent to those prepared using ISO 293-1986, Cooling Method D. Specimens prepared using , Procedure C should be equivalent to those prepared using ISO 293-1986, Cooling Method B. However, due to the greater cooling rate tolerances of the ISO standard, specimens prepared in accordance with ISO Cooling Method B may not be equivalent to , Procedure C.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
The properties of molded parts and the ease of producing satisfactory specimens are influenced by the temperature of the mold. It is desirable to know the actual mold temperature which may be different from the mold temperature control medium.
The user should be aware of temperature differences across the mold/thermocouple interface and at leads and should take precautions to minimize such differences.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice is intended for determining the temperature at a specified point or points on the surface of the cavity and base of a mold for plastics. By determining the temperature at as many points as deemed necessary, the overall temperature condition of the surface can be determined.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values in brackets are given for information only.
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.Note 1
There is no similar ISO standard.

SCOPE
1.1 This practice is intended for determining the temperature at a specified point or points on the surface of the cavity and base of a mold for plastics. By determining the temperature at as many points as deemed necessary, the overall temperature condition of the surface can be determined.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values in brackets are given for information only.
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.Note 1
There is no similar ISO standard.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
The conditions at which compounds are molded are known to influence the properties of the specimens. The degree of cure, elimination of knit-lines between particles, density of the part, and degradation of the polymer are among those factors which will be affected by the molding conditions. Thus it is important to hold to a standard set of conditions in order to have a valid comparison of properties between different compounds and different batches of the same compound.
If the molded specimens show evidence of low-density areas due to trapped gases, they should be discarded. A breathe step may be necessary to eliminate this situation. It is critical that the breathe step be as brief as possible to avoid precuring of the compound before full pressure is applied. This would lead to poorly “knitted” areas and lower strength in the molded specimen.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the general principles to be followed when compression molding test specimens of thermosetting molding compounds, such as phenolics, aminoplastics, melamine phenolics, epoxies, and unsaturated polyesters.
Note 1—This standard is similar in content (but not technically equivalent) to ISO 295-1974 (E).
1.2 Molding conditions are given for amino, phenolic, and allyl molding compounds. Materials specification standards should always be consulted to determine whether the material to be molded has any special requirements.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values in brackets are given for information only.
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.

SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the general principles to be followed when injection molding test specimens of thermosetting materials. It is to be used to obtain uniformity in methods of describing the various steps of the injection molding process and in the reporting of those conditions. The exact molding conditions will vary from material to material, and should become part of the material specification or be agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier.Note 1The utility of this practice has been demonstrated for the molding of thermosetting molding compounds exhibiting lower-viscosity non-Newtonian flow.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in brackets are for information only.
This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, 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.
1.3 This practice assumes the use of reciprocating screw injection molding machines.Note 2
This standard is similar in content (but not technically equivalent) to ISO 10724: 1994(E).

SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers a general procedure for the transfer molding of mechanical and electrical test specimens of thermosetting molding materials.Note 1The utility of this practice has been demonstrated for the molding of thermosetting molding compounds exhibiting intermediate viscosity non-Newtonian flow.
1.2 The values stated in either SI or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with 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.
There is no similar, or equivalent, ISO standard.

SCOPE
1.1 This test method is intended to measure shrinkage from mold cavity to molded dimensions of thermosetting plastics when molded by compression, injection, or transfer under specified conditions.
1.2 This test method provides for the measurement of shrinkage of thermosetting plastics from their molds both initially (within 16 to 72 h of molding) and as they age (post-shrinkage at elevated temperatures).
1.3 This method will give comparable data based on standard specimens and can not predict absolute values in actual molded parts with varying flow paths, wall thicknesses, pressure gradiants and process conditions. Differences in mold shrinkage generally is observed between the specimen geometries described in this test method.
1.4 Knowledge of the initial shrinkage of plastics is important for the construction of molds and knowledge of post molding shrinkage is important for determining the suitability of the molding material for manufacturing thermosetting plastic components with accurate dimensions.
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in brackets are for information only.
1.6 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.
Note 1—This test method and ISO 2577-1984 are equivalent when bars of 120 mm length, 15 mm width, and 10 mm thickness are used for compression molding; or flat, square plaques approximately 120 by 120 by 4 mm are used for injection molding.

SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the compression molding of thermoplastic granules and milled stock for the preparation of test specimens.
1.2 While conditions for certain materials are given, the primary source of specific conditions shall be the material specification standards for each type of material.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 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.
Note 1—The main body of this practice is equivalent to ISO 293-1986. Annex A1 and ISO 293-1986 differ in some details; however, specimens prepared using Annex A1, Procedure A should be equivalent to those prepared using ISO 293-1986, Cooling Method D. Specimens prepared using Annex A1, Procedure C should be equivalent to those prepared using ISO 293-1986, Cooling Method B. However, due to the greater cooling rate tolerances of the ISO standard, specimens prepared according to ISO Cooling Method B may not be equivalent to Annex A1, Procedure C.

SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the compression molding of thermoplastic granules and milled stock for the preparation of test specimens.
1.2 While conditions for certain materials are given, the primary source of specific conditions shall be the material specification standards for each type of material.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 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.
Note 1—The main body of this practice is equivalent to ISO 293-1986. Annex A1 and ISO 293-1986 differ in some details; however, specimens prepared using Annex A1, Procedure A should be equivalent to those prepared using ISO 293-1986, Cooling Method D. Specimens prepared using Annex A1, Procedure C should be equivalent to those prepared using ISO 293-1986, Cooling Method B. However, due to the greater cooling rate tolerances of the ISO standard, specimens prepared according to ISO Cooling Method B may not be equivalent to Annex A1, Procedure C.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
It is well known that plastic test specimens molded under different conditions can have significantly different properties. This practice is designed to minimize those differences by establishing operating protocols without being unnecessarily restrictive.
Always refer to the ASTM material specification or ISO designation for the material for recommended molding conditions. If not available, consult the material supplier.
This practice requires the use of adequate quantities of plastic material to find desirable operating conditions and to make the desired test specimens.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the general principles to be followed when injection molding test specimens of thermoplastic molding and extrusion materials. This practice is to be used to obtain uniformity in methods of describing the various steps of the injection molding process and to set up uniform methods of reporting these conditions. The exact conditions required to prepare suitable specimens will vary for each plastic material. Those conditions should become a part of the specification for the material, or be agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier. Any requirements or recommendations in the material specification which differ from this standard take precedence over those in this standard.
1.2 The methodology presented assumes the use of reciprocating screw injection molding machines.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 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.
Note 1—This practice is equivalent to the following parts of ISO 294: Plastics-Injection Moulding of Test Specimens of Thermoplastic Materials; 294-1: Part 1-General Principles and Multipurpose Test Specimens (ISO Type A Mould) and Bars (ISO Type B Mould); ISO 294-2: Part 2-Small Tensile Bars (ISO Type C Mould); ISO 294-3: Part 3-Plates (ISO Type D Moulds).

SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the general principles to be followed when injection molding test specimens of thermoplastic molding and extrusion materials. This practice is to be used to obtain uniformity in methods of describing the various steps of the injection molding process and to set up uniform methods of reporting these conditions. The exact conditions required to prepare suitable specimens will vary for each plastic material. Those conditions should become a part of the specification for the material, or be agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier. Any requirements or recommendations in the material specification which differ from this standard take precedence over those in this standard.
1.2 The methodology presented assumes the use of reciprocating screw injection molding machines.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 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.
Note 1—This practice is equivalent to the following parts of ISO 294: Plastics-Injection Moulding of Test Specimens of Thermoplastic Materials; 294-1: Part 1-General Principles and Multipurpose Test Specimens (ISO Type A Mould) and Bars (ISO Type B Mould); ISO 294-2: Part 2-Small Tensile Bars (ISO Type C Mould); ISO 294-3: Part 3-Plates (ISO Type D Moulds).

SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the compression molding of thermoplastic granules and milled stock for the preparation of test specimens.
1.2 While conditions for certain materials are given, the primary source of specific conditions shall be the material specification standards for each type of material.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 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.
Note 1--The main body of this practice is equivalent to ISO 293-1986. Annex A1 and ISO 293-1986 differ in some details; however, specimens prepared using Annex A1, Procedure A should be equivalent to those prepared using ISO 293-1986, Cooling Method D. Specimens prepared using Annex A1, Procedure C should be equivalent to those prepared using ISO 293-1986, Cooling Method B. However, due to the greater cooling rate tolerances of the ISO standard, specimens prepared according to ISO Cooling Method B may not be equivalent to Annex A1, Procedure C.

SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the compression molding of thermoplastic granules and milled stock for the preparation of test specimens.
1.2 While conditions for certain materials are given, the primary source of specific conditions shall be the material specification standards for each type of material.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 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.
Note 1--The main body of this practice is equivalent to ISO 293-1986. Annex A1 and ISO 293-1986 differ in some details; however, specimens prepared using Annex A1, Procedure A should be equivalent to those prepared using ISO 293-1986, Cooling Method D. Specimens prepared using Annex A1, Procedure C should be equivalent to those prepared using ISO 293-1986, Cooling Method B. However, due to the greater cooling rate tolerances of the ISO standard, specimens prepared according to ISO Cooling Method B may not be equivalent to Annex A1, Procedure C.

SCOPE
1.1 This test method is intended to measure shrinkage from mold cavity to molded dimensions of thermoplastics when molded by compression or injection processes with specified process conditions.
1.2 This test method covers initial shrinkage measurements. The method also accommodates shrinkage at 24 and 48 h, which may be critical for some materials.
1.3 This method will give comparable data based on standard specimens and can not predict absolute values in actual molded parts with varying flow paths, wall thicknesses, pressure gradients and process conditions. Differences in mold shrinkage may also be observed between the three specimen geometries described in this test method.
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are given for information only.
1.5 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.
Note 1--This test method is technically identical to ISO 294-4 where Type D2 specimens are used except that pressure transducers are an option in this test method and required in ISO 294-4.

SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the general principles to be followed when injection molding test specimens of thermosetting materials. It is to be used to obtain uniformity in methods of describing the various steps of the injection molding process and in the reporting of those conditions. The exact molding conditions will vary from material to material, and should become part of the material specification or be agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier.
Note 1--The utility of this practice has been demonstrated for the molding of thermosetting molding compounds exhibiting lower-viscosity non-Newtonian flow.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, 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.
1.3 This practice assumes the use of reciprocating screw injection molding machines.
Note 2--This standard is similar in content (but not technically equivalent) to ISO 10724: 1994(E).

SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the general principles to be followed when compression molding test specimens of thermosetting molding compounds, such as phenolics, aminoplastics, melamine phenolics, epoxies, and unsaturated polyesters.
Note 1--This standard is similar in content (but not technically equivalent) to ISO 295-1974 (E).
1.2 Molding conditions are given for amino, phenolic, and allyl molding compounds. Materials specification standards should always be consulted to determine whether the material to be molded has any special requirements.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are given for information only.
1.4 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.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
Injection Molding—In injection molding, the difference between the dimensions of a mold cavity and of the molded specimen may vary according to the design of the mold and operation of the molding process. Factors such as mold and melt temperature, fill times, and packing conditions are known to affect shrinkage significantly. Adherence to the specified mold design (see 7.1) and specifications outlined in Practice D 3641 or ISO 294-4 or the appropriate material will improve the reproducibility of the test.
Compression Molding—In compression molding, the difference between the dimensions of a mold cavity and of the molded specimen may vary according to the design of the mold and operation of the molding process. Factors, such as the amount of material in charge, cooling time, and pressure application are known to affect shrinkage significantly. Adherence to the specified mold design (see 7.2) and specifications outlined in Practice D 4703 or ISO 293 or the appropriate material specifications will improve the reproducibility of the test.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method is intended to measure shrinkage from mold cavity to molded dimensions of thermoplastics when molded by compression or injection processes with specified process conditions.
1.2 This test method covers initial shrinkage measurements. The method also accommodates shrinkage at 24 and 48 h, which may be critical for some materials.
1.3 This method will give comparable data based on standard specimens and can not predict absolute values in actual molded parts with varying flow paths, wall thicknesses, pressure gradients and process conditions. Differences in mold shrinkage may also be observed between the three specimen geometries described in this test method.
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are given for information only.
1.5 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.
Note 1--This test method is technically identical to ISO 294-4 where Type D2 specimens are used except that pressure transducers are an option in this test method and required in ISO 294-4.

SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the general principles to be followed when injection molding test specimens of thermosetting materials. It is to be used to obtain uniformity in methods of describing the various steps of the injection molding process and in the reporting of those conditions. The exact molding conditions will vary from material to material, and should become part of the material specification or be agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier.
Note 1--The utility of this practice has been demonstrated for the molding of thermosetting molding compounds exhibiting lower-viscosity non-Newtonian flow.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, 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.
1.3 This practice assumes the use of reciprocating screw injection molding machines.
Note 2--This standard is similar in content (but not technically equivalent) to ISO 10724: 1994(E).

SCOPE
1.1 This practice is intended for determining the temperature at a specified point or points on the surface of the cavity and base of a mold for plastics. By determining the temperature at as many points as deemed necessary, the overall temperature condition of the surface can be determined.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are given for information only.
1.3 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.
Note 1--There is no similar ISO standard.

SCOPE
1.1 This practice is intended for determining the temperature at a specified point or points on the surface of the cavity and base of a mold for plastics. By determining the temperature at as many points as deemed necessary, the overall temperature condition of the surface can be determined.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are given for information only.
1.3 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.
Note 1--There is no similar ISO standard.

SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers a general procedure for transfer molding thermosetting materials into test specimens for Izod or Charpy impact, flexure, tension, compression, water-absorption, heat-aging, electrical, modulus in tension or flexure, and heat-deflection-temperature tests.  Note 1-The utility of this practice has been demonstrated for the molding of thermosetting molding compounds exhibiting intermediate viscosity non-Newtonian flow.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, 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.>  Note 2-There are no ISO standards covering the primary subject of this practice.

SCOPE
1.1 This test method is intended to measure batch-to-batch uniformity in initial shrinkage from mold to molded dimensions of thermosetting materials when molded by compression, injection, or transfer under specified conditions.
1.2 This test method provides for the measurement of shrinkage of thermosetting plastics from their molds both initially (within 16 to 72 h of molding) and as they age (post-shrinkage at elevated temperatures).
1.3 Knowledge of the initial shrinkage of plastics is important for the construction of molds and knowledge of post molding shrinkage is important for determining the suitability of the molding material for manufacturing thermosetting plastic components with accurate dimensions.
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.5 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.
Note 1-This test method and ISO 2577-1984 are equivalent when bars of 120 mm length, 15 mm width, and 10 mm thickness are used for compression molding; or flat, square plaques approximately 120 by 120 by 4 mm are used for injection molding.