ASTM D882

Why Choose the VantageNX to Meet ASTM D882?

The VantageNX Universal Testing Machine can be configured to meet ASTM D882 by selecting the appropriate load cell, grips, and crosshead speed for the film being tested. As a universal testing machine, it is built to adapt to the equipment requirements of this and other plastic film and packaging standards rather than being limited to a single fixed configuration. With over 125 years of experience in materials testing, Thwing-Albert’s applications team works directly with customers to help select the right load cell, grip, and fixture combination for their specific film type, backed by our ISO 9001 certified commitment to quality.

Key Features for Plastic Film Testing

• Interchangeable load cells to match the force range of the film being tested
• Pneumatic grips for consistent clamping pressure on thin, low-friction film
• Variable crosshead speed to accommodate a wide range of film elongation behavior
• Single and dual column frame options with multiple travel distances
• PC control via MAP4 Materials Testing Software with a built-in library of standard test methods

Related Standards

The VantageNX can also be configured to meet related plastic film and tensile testing standards, including:

• ASTM D790 — Flexural Properties of Plastics
• ASTM F88 — Seal Strength of Flexible Barrier Materials
• ASTM D3330 — Peel Adhesion of Pressure-Sensitive Tape
• ISO 7500-1 — Verification of Static Uniaxial Testing Machines

The standards listed on this page represent a selection of common test methods — not a complete list. If you don’t see your standard, contact us and our team can help determine the right instrument configuration for your test method.

Frequently Asked Questions

What thickness of plastic film does ASTM D882 apply to?

ASTM D882 applies to plastic sheeting and film less than 1.0 mm (0.04 in.) in thickness. Thicker plastic specimens are typically tested under ASTM D638 instead.

How do I choose the right load cell for film tensile testing?

Load cell selection depends on the expected breaking force of the film being tested. Using a load cell with too high a capacity can reduce measurement accuracy for thin, low-strength films, while too low a capacity risks overload. The VantageNX supports interchangeable load cells so the capacity can be matched to the specific film type and thickness being evaluated. Our applications team can help identify the right load cell for your material.

Why does film slip during tensile testing?

Film slippage is commonly caused by insufficient clamping pressure, smooth or low-friction film surfaces, or worn grip jaw faces. It can lead to inaccurate elongation readings and premature failure at the grip line. Pneumatic grips with appropriate jaw faces and consistent clamping pressure help minimize this issue.

How is elongation measured during plastic film tensile testing?

Elongation is measured by tracking the displacement of the crosshead or grips relative to the original specimen length as the film is pulled to failure, and is typically expressed as a percentage of the original gauge length. Some test methods allow this to be tracked through crosshead travel alone, while others call for an extensometer or gauge marks on the specimen for more precise strain measurement. The correct approach depends on the requirements of the specific standard being followed.

Can the VantageNX be configured for other plastic film standards?

Yes. The VantageNX is a universal testing machine, meaning it can be reconfigured with different load cells, grips, and software test methods to meet a range of ASTM, ISO, and other standards used in plastic film and flexible packaging testing.

What grips are recommended for plastic film tensile testing?

Pneumatic grips are commonly recommended for plastic film testing because they apply consistent clamping pressure across the specimen, which helps reduce slippage in thin or low-friction materials.

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