ASTM F970| Floor Coverings | Recovery Testing
Heavy equipment and furniture apply constant static loads to flooring materials for long periods of time. Testing floor coverings according to ASTM F970 Standard Test Method for Static Load Limit can help ensure the longevity and stability of these flooring materials.
ASTM F970 is used to determine the recovery properties of resilient floor coverings. Utilizing the results from this test (residual indentation), architects, designers, and engineers can make informed decisions about the selection of flooring materials, ensuring that the chosen materials meet the functional requirements of specific installations.
The test consists of applying a static compressive load for 24 hours and then letting the material “recover” for an additional 24 hours. Then the residual indentation is calculated using the initial specimen thickness and the thickness after the recovery period.
Prior to conducting this test, it is important to read the entire specification in the relevant ASTM publication.
ASTM F970| Floor Coverings | Recovery Testing
Please refer to the full ASTM F970 publication before proceeding with this test.
- Cut at least three 2 in x 2 in test samples from the flooring material under test. Measure and record the initial thickness of each sample.
- Place the first sample on the machine base. Center an indenter plate on the first sample. Continue building the stack by alternating between a sample and indenter plate (See Figure 2 – ASTM F970 Specification). Center the stack under the plunger.
- Determine which load specification is to be used (75 lb, 125 lb, 175 lb, or 250 lb) and apply the compressive load for 24 ± 0.25 h
- Separate the specimens from the indenter plates and allow them to recover for 24 ± 0.25 h
- Measure the final thickness in the same location as the initial thickness measurement
Residual Indentation = T1 – T2
Where:
- T1 = Initial thickness
- T2 = Thickness after 24h recovery
ASTM F970| Floor Coverings | Recovery Testing
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- eXpert 7603 – ASTM F970 Test Setup
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- eXpert 7600 – ASTM F970 Floor Recovery Fixture
ASTM F970| Floor Coverings | Recovery Testing
| ASTM F1306 | Recommended Equipment |
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| Testing System | |
| Fixturing |