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ASTM D2990 | Plastics | Tensile, Compressive, and Flexural Creep, Creep Rupture

Plastics under constant strain will succumb to slow deformation phenomena known as Creep, also called “cold flow”. Strain force, temperature and time are the three primary factors which have an effect on creep tendency.  ASTM D2990 specifies tests for Compression, Flexural, and Tensile analysis. Creep Modulus and Creep Strain are two values unique to this type of test. Temperature Chambers and Weathering Equipment are often used to increase the speed of the test and to simulate real world conditions.   This information briefly outlines the basic test procedures and the equipment required to meet this standard with accuracy. For complete instructions and ensuring that your products are in accordance with ASTM D2990, please refer to the official specification in the ASTM publication.

ASTM D2990 | Plastics | Tensile, Compressive, and Flexural Creep, Creep Rupture

For Tensile Creep:

  1. Measure the sample’s cross-sectional area. Tensile creep and creep-rupture tests use specimens outlined in ASTM D638 or D1822 respectively.
  2. Mount the standard sample, ADMET recommends self-aligning grips and an extensometer.
  3. Apply the full load within 5 seconds.
  4. Measure the deformation at set time intervals: 1, 6, 12, 30 min. 1, 2, 5, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 700 and 1000 hours or at least monthly for longer tests.
  5. If test interval is completed without rupture remove the load in a quick but controlled manner.

For Compressive Creep:

  1. Measure the sample’s cross-sectional area. Compressive creep tests use specimens outlined in ASTM D695.
  2. Mount the standard sample, ADMET recommends self-aligning compression anvils.
  3. Attach a deflectometer for accurate deformation measurements.
  4. Apply the full load within 5 seconds.
  5. Measure the deformation at set time intervals: 1, 6, 12, 30 min. 1, 2, 5, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 700 and 1000 hours or at least monthly for longer tests.
  6. If test interval is completed without rupture remove the load in a quick but controlled manner.

For Flexural Creep:

  1. Measure the sample’s cross-sectional area. Flexural creep tests use specimens outlined in ASTM D790.
  2. Mount the standard sample, ADMET recommends a flexural creep rack.
  3. Attach the weight and stirrup at mid-span.
  4. A dial gage or cathetometer may be used to measure the flex.
  5. Measure the deformation at set time intervals: 1, 6, 12, 30 min. 1, 2, 5, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, If test interval is completed without rupture remove the load in a quick but controlled manner.

ASTM D2990 | Plastics | Tensile, Compressive, and Flexural Creep, Creep Rupture

ASTM D2990 Recommended Equipment
Testing System
Fixturing
Accessories
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