The test method employed is as important as the durometer used for testing your precision materials such as medical and aerospace polymers.

The following procedures are based on ASTM Standard D2240. This standard is recognized as being definitive, however, not all applications require such stringent controls.

The surface of the sample to be tested shall be clean and smooth. The sample should be at least 1/4" (6 mm) in thickness unless it is known that identical results are obtained with a thinner specimen. Thinner materials can be stacked to obtain the minimum thickness. The sample should be large enough so that the indenter is at least 1/2" (12 mm) from any edge unless it is known that identical results are obtained when measurements are made closer to the edge. The surface of the specimen shall be flat over a sufficient area to permit the presser foot to contact the specimen over an area having a radius of at least 1/4" (6 mm) from the indenter point. The temperature of the specimen should be 73.4°F ±3.5°F (23°C ±2°C). The specimen should be allowed to rest at this temperature for at least 1 hour prior to testing, as the properties of most materials change with temperature.

Place the specimen on a hard, horizontal surface. Set the ancillary hand of the durometer below 5 points on the dial. Hold the durometer vertically with the point of the indenter at least 1/2" (12 mm) from any edge. Apply the presser foot to the specimen as rapidly as possible, without shock, keeping the foot parallel to the surface of the specimen. Apply just sufficient force to obtain firm contact between the presser foot and the specimen. Hold for 1 or 2 seconds, the maximum reading can be obtained from the ancillary hand. If other than a maximum reading is needed, hold the durometer in place without motion and obtain the reading after the required time interval. PTC recommends the use of the Constaloader Test Stand for timed readings. Make 5 tests at least 1/4" (6 mm) apart and use the average value.