ASTM Quality Standards

Find the right instrument for your ASTM test method

Thwing-Albert has been building precision materials testing instruments for over 125 years. Our team works directly with QC labs, R&D engineers, and materials scientists to identify the right instrument configuration for your specific test method — including load range, test speed, grip and fixture selection, and software requirements.

If your ASTM standard isn’t listed above, or you need help confirming which instrument meets your method requirements, contact our team or request a quote. We also offer calibration and preventive maintenance services to keep your instruments performing to standard over time.

Testing to a different standard? Browse our full range of supported test methods including ISO, TAPPI, FINAT, PSTC, and more.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know which ASTM standard applies to my material?

ASTM standards are organized by material type and test property. In general, the D-series covers plastics, films, rubber, and textiles; the F-series covers packaging and medical devices; and the B-series covers metallic materials. The best starting point is identifying the physical property you need to measure — tensile strength, tear resistance, seal strength, coefficient of friction, and so on — and then matching that to the material you’re testing. If you’re unsure, our team can help narrow it down based on your material and industry requirements.

Can one instrument meet multiple ASTM standards?

Yes. Many Thwing-Albert instruments — particularly our universal testing machines — are configurable to meet multiple ASTM standards by changing grips, fixtures, test speed, and software test methods. For example, a single tensile testing frame paired with the appropriate fixtures can be used to run ASTM D882 for plastic film, ASTM F88 for seal strength, and ASTM D1876 for peel adhesion. This makes our instruments a cost-effective solution for labs that test a range of materials or need to meet multiple customer specifications.

How do I select the right grip or fixture for my ASTM test method?

Grip and fixture selection depends on the material being tested, the required sample geometry, and the test method itself. ASTM standards often specify the type of grip or fixture required — for example, pneumatic grips for slippery films, or a specific peel fixture angle for adhesive testing. Selecting the wrong grip can introduce slippage, sample damage, or inconsistent results that invalidate your test data. Thwing-Albert offers an extensive range of grips and fixtures, and our team can recommend the correct configuration for your specific ASTM method and material.

Can Thwing-Albert configure an instrument for a standard not listed here?

Yes. The ASTM standards listed on this page represent a selection of the methods our instruments are commonly used to meet — not a complete list. If your required standard isn’t shown, contact us with your test method number and material type. Our engineering and applications team will review the method requirements and recommend the instrument, fixture, and software configuration best suited to meet it.

What are the most common ASTM standards for packaging materials testing?

Packaging is one of the most heavily tested material categories under ASTM, with standards covering both flexible and rigid formats. Commonly referenced standards include ASTM F88 for seal strength of flexible barrier materials, ASTM D882 for tensile properties of thin plastic sheeting, ASTM D1894 for coefficient of friction of plastic film and sheeting, ASTM D1922 for tear resistance of plastic films, ASTM D3330 for peel adhesion of pressure-sensitive tapes, and ASTM F2096 for detecting gross leaks in packaging. The right standards for your application will depend on your material, your customer requirements, and any regulatory obligations your packaging must meet.