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D1565-81 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
📐 Specification Scope and Terminology
This specification, designated ASTM D1565-81 (Reapproved 1990), covers flexible cellular products containing interconnecting cells made from poly(vinyl chloride) or copolymers thereof. It serves as a general specification and may require supplementation with detailed specifications for specific products. Key terms defined include vinyl or PVC for the base material, surface skin formed during manufacturing, mechanically blown foam, chemically blown foam, and flexibility tested by bending specimens around a mandrel.
📊 Classification and Grade Designation
Grades are classified as VC (cored), VU (uncored), and VO (uncored, extra firm). Digits following the letters indicate firmness, with lower numbers for softer grades. Suffix letters can be added for additional requirements, as summarized in the table below.
| 🔤 Suffix | 📋 Significance |
|---|---|
| C | Weather Resistance |
| D | Load Deflection |
| E | Oil Resistance |
| F | Low Temperature |
| G | Tear Resistance |
| H | Flexing Resistance |
| J | Abrasion Resistance |
| K1 | Adhesion to Metal (Made During Moldings) |
| K2 | Adhesion (Cemented Bond, Made After Molding) |
| M | Flame Resistance |
| P | Nonstaining |
| P1 | Compatibility with Other Materials |
| R | Resilience |
| W | Density |
| Z | Special Requirements |
🏭 Manufacturing and Compliance
Foam may be produced in sheet, strip, or molded shapes, either solid or cored. The standard is approved for use by Department of Defense agencies. It was jointly prepared by ASTM and the Society of the Plastics Industry. Users must establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine regulatory applicability.
Per Section 1.3, users must establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine regulatory limitations prior to use.
Suffix letters are used to specify additional requirements beyond basic properties. Test methods and values for these suffixes must be agreed upon between purchaser and manufacturer.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What types of materials does D1565-81 cover?
It covers flexible cellular materials with interconnecting cells made from vinyl chloride polymers or copolymers, specifically open-cell foam.
💡 How are grade designations constructed?
Grades use letters VC, VU, or VO for core type, followed by digits for firmness, and optional suffix letters for additional requirements.
⚡ What is the significance of suffix “W”?
Suffix “W” denotes density requirements, with test methods agreed upon between parties.
📌 How is flexibility defined in the standard?
A material is flexible if a specimen 200 x 25 x 25 mm bent around a 25 mm mandrel at a rate of one lap in 5 seconds at 18-29°C does not rupture within 60 seconds.