Dart Drop Tester
- Falling Dart Impact
The Dart Drop Tester is a key tool used in material testing, particularly for assessing the impact resistance of plastic films. This test is essential for evaluating the durability of films used in packaging, especially when subjected to external forces during handling and transportation. With its ability to determine the impact strength of materials, the Dart Drop Tester is widely used across various industries, including food packaging, pharmaceuticals, and electronics.
What is the Dart Drop Tester?
The Dart Drop Tester is designed to evaluate the impact resistance of plastic films, sheets, foils, and other thin materials by simulating real-world conditions where these materials might experience sudden impacts. The test involves dropping a dart from a specified height onto the material and measuring the energy required to cause the material to fail. This test provides valuable data for manufacturers, enabling them to assess the durability of their products under various conditions.
Understanding the Falling Dart Impact Test Procedure
ASTM D1709 and ISO 7765 Standards
The Falling Dart Impact Test is governed by international standards, notably ASTM D1709 and ISO 7765. These standards provide clear guidelines for performing the test and ensure the results are accurate and reproducible. In ASTM D1709, the test is typically conducted by dropping a dart from a set height onto the material and determining the impact resistance in terms of grams or joules. ISO 7765 provides similar procedures, but with slight variations in test conditions and equipment specifications.
The key to the dart impact test procedure is the controlled environment and the precise equipment used. The Falling Dart Impact Tester incorporates a dart assembly and releasing mechanism that ensures consistent performance during each test. The sample material is securely clamped, and the dart is allowed to fall under the influence of gravity. The test results are then recorded and analyzed to determine the material’s resistance to impacts.
Test Procedure and Key Parameters
- Preparation: The material to be tested is placed on a flat surface, and its thickness is measured.
- Test Setup: The dart, with a specific weight, is suspended at a defined height. The height and weight of the dart depend on the chosen test method (Method A or Method B).
- Impact: The dart is released to fall freely onto the material. The energy of the falling dart is absorbed by the material, and the force is measured to assess the material’s impact resistance.
- Result: The test results are displayed in grams or joules, indicating the energy required to puncture or break the material.
Applications of the Dart Drop Tester
The Dart Drop Tester is widely used in industries that require packaging materials to be durable and impact-resistant. Here are some key applications:
- Packaging Industry: Ensuring that plastic films, sheets, and composite materials used in food, beverage, and pharmaceutical packaging can withstand external forces during transportation.
- Electronics: Assessing the packaging materials used for protecting electronic components from impacts during shipping.
- Textiles: Testing the resistance of textile materials to impact forces, which is critical for certain applications such as clothing and upholstery.
Benefits of Using the Dart Drop Tester
- Reliable Data: The test provides accurate and reproducible results, helping manufacturers make informed decisions about material selection.
- Quality Assurance: Regular testing ensures the durability of packaging materials, preventing potential product damage during handling or shipping.
- Material Performance: Manufacturers can optimize their material formulations based on Dart Drop Tester results to improve impact resistance.
Key Features and Parameter of the FDT-01 Falling Dart Impact Tester
Key Features
The FDT-01 Falling Dart Impact Tester is a widely used model in the industry, known for its reliability and ease of use. Some of its notable features include:
- PLC Control and Touch Screen Operation: Ensures smooth operation and quick access to test results.
- Multiple Test Methods: Provides both Method A and Method B, allowing flexibility depending on the test material.
- Accurate Measurement: Offers precise measurement with accuracy down to 0.1g (0.1J).
- Data Output: The tester features a built-in printer for immediate data output.
Main Parameter
| Test Method Method | A or Method B (optional) |
| Test Range | Method A: 50~2000g/Method B: 300~2000g |
| Dart Diameter | Method A: 38±1mm/Method B: 50±1mm |
| Impact Height | 660mm/1500mm |
| Accuracy | 0.1g (0.1J) |
| Clamp | Pneumatic Clamp |
| Gas Supply | 0.6 MPa Φ8 mm PU Tubing |
| Specimen Size | > 150 mm x 150 mm |
| Power Supply | AC 110~220V 50Hz |
| Dimension | Method A: 500*450*1200 mm (LWH) Method B: 500*450*2200 mm (LWH) |
Standards for Dart Drop Testing
The Falling Dart Impact Test follows the guidelines set by various international standards, including:
- ASTM D1709: Specifies the test method for plastic film impact resistance.
- ISO 7765-1: Defines the procedure for testing the impact strength of plastic films and sheets.
- JIS K7124-1: Japanese standard for measuring the impact resistance of plastic materials.
