This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles

for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

Designation: D3574 − 17

Standard Test Methods for

Flexible Cellular Materials—Slab, Bonded, and Molded
Urethane Foams1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D3574; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.

1. Scope* E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to

1.1 These test methods apply to slab, bonded, and molded Determine the Precision of a Test Method
flexible cellular products known as urethane foams. Urethane 3. Terminology
foam is generally defined as an expanded cellular product
produced by the interaction of active hydrogen compounds, 3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
water, and isocyanates. 3.1.1 bonded foam—a product produced by the adhesion of
small pieces of urethane foam to each other with a suitable
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the bonding agent.
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- 3.1.2 core—the internal portion of a molded part, free of
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica- skin.
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. 3.1.3 cored foam—a flexible cellular material containing a
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as multiplicity of holes (usually, but not necessarily, cylindrical in
standard. shape), molded or cut into the material in some pattern,
NOTE 1—There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard, however normally perpendicular to the foam rise direction, and extend-
certain test methods in this standard have similar or equivalent ISO ing part or all the way through the piece.
standards and are listed in the scope of the individual test method sections.
3.1.4 convoluted foam—a flexible cellular material specially
2. Referenced Documents cut into sheets with “egg carton”-like dimples. The dimple
peaks and bases can have varied shapes and dimensions.
2.1 ASTM Standards:2
D412 Test Methods for Vulcanized Rubber and Thermoplas- 3.1.5 flexible cellular product—a cellular organic polymeric
tic Elastomers—Tension material that will not rupture when a specimen 200 by 25 by 25
D624 Test Method for Tear Strength of Conventional Vul- mm is bent around a 25-mm diameter mandrel at a uniform rate
canized Rubber and Thermoplastic Elastomers of one lap in 5 s at a temperature between 18 and 29°C.
D737 Test Method for Air Permeability of Textile Fabrics 3.1.6 molded foam—a cellular product having the shape of
D3576 Test Method for Cell Size of Rigid Cellular Plastics the enclosed chamber in which it is produced by foaming.
D3675 Test Method for Surface Flammability of Flexible 3.1.7 skin—the smooth surface layer of a molded foam
Cellular Materials Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source product, formed by contact with the mold or surfaces.
E162 Test Method for Surface Flammability of Materials
3.1.8 slab—a section of foam that is cut from the internal
Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
portion of a large bun.
E662 Test Method for Specific Optical Density of Smoke
Generated by Solid Materials 3.1.9 urethane foam—a flexible cellular product produced
by the interaction of active hydrogen compounds, water, and
isocyanates.
1
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D20 on 3.1.10 viscoelastic foam—a specially formulated urethane
Plastics and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D20.22 on Cellular foam characterized by having slow recovery, low resilience,
Materials - Plastics and Elastomers. and high hysteresis loss.
Current edition approved March 1, 2017. Published March 2017. Originally
approved in 1977. Last previous edition approved in 2016 as D3574 – 16. DOI: 3.1.11 cell count—a measurement used to characterize dif-
10.1520/D3574-17.
2
ferent types of foams based on the size of the individual cells
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
in the foam matrix, typically expressed as either average cell
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on diameter or as the number of cells per linear distance. For
the ASTM website. measuring cell counts, see Test Method D3576.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

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 D3574 − 17
3.1.12 clickability—the ability of a flexible cellular material 6.3 For mechanical tests, it is advisable to carefully select
to recover from the pinching effects of die cutting. the proper load cell for each test. It is recommended that the
expected load for any individual test falls within 10-90 % of
4. Summary of Test Methods the load cell capacity.
4.1 Unless otherwise specifically stated and agreed upon by
the purchaser and the supplier, all tests shall be made in 7. Sampling
accordance with the methods specified in Sections 9 – 150, 7.1 When possible, the completed manufactured product
which include test procedures for the following: shall be used for the test specified. Representative samples of
Tests: Sections the lot being examined shall be selected at random, as required.
Test A Density Test 9 – 15
Test B1 Indentation Force Deflection Test—Specified 16 – 22 7.2 When it is necessary or advisable to obtain specimens
Deflection (IFD)
Test B2 Indentation Residual Gauge Length Test— 23 – 29
from the articles, as in those cases where the entire sample is
Specified not required or adaptable for testing, the method of cutting and
Force (IRGL) the exact position from which specimens are to be taken shall
Test C Compression Force Deflection Test 30 – 36
Test D Constant Deflection Compression Set Test 37 – 44
be specified. The density and the state of cure can vary in
Test E Tensile Test 45 – 52 different parts of the finished product, especially if the article is
Test F Tear Resistance Test 53 – 60 of complicated shape or of varying thickness, and these factors
Test G Air Flow Test 61 – 67
Test H Resilience (Ball Rebound) Test 68 – 75 affect the physical properties of the specimens. Also, the
Test I1 Static Force Loss Test at Constant Deflection 77 – 85 density is affected by the number of cut surfaces on the
Test I2 Dynamic Fatigue Test by Roller Shear at Con- 86 – 94 specimen. If a test specimen is die cut, ensure that the sides are
stant Force
Test I3 Dynamic Fatigue Test by Constant Force 95 – 103 not concave and allow sufficient time for complete recovery of
Pounding the thickness across the full width of the specimen before
Test I4 Dynamic Fatigue Test for Carpet Cushion 104 – 112 testing.
Test I5 Dynamic Fatigue Test by Constant Deflection 113 – 121
Pounding
Aging Test J Steam Autoclave Aging 122 – 127
7.3 When the finished molded product does not lend itself to
Aging Test K Dry Heat Aging 128 – 133 testing or to the taking of specimens because of complicated
Aging Test L Wet Heat Aging 134 – 139 shape, small size, metal or fabric inserts, adhesion to metal, or
Test M Recovery Time 140 – 145
Test N Hysteresis Loss 146 – 150
other reasons, molded test slabs, as agreed upon between the
purchaser and the supplier, shall be prepared.
Appendixes:
X1. Suggested Method for Specifying Flexible Urethane Foams 7.4 When differences in test results arise due to the difficulty
X2. Suggested Method of Construction for a Roller Shear Dynamic Flex in obtaining suitable specimens from the finished parts, the
Fatigue Apparatus
X3. Definitions of Terms Used to Describe the Force-Deflection Curve of
purchaser and the supplier shall agree upon an acceptable
Flexible Urethane Foam location from which to take the specimen.
X4. Suggested Tests for Determining Combustibility of Flexible Urethane
Foam. (The combustion tests are given for informational purposes only
and are not part of the standard.) 8. Measurement of Test Specimens
X5. Suggested Method for the Verification of an Inclined Oil Manometer
8.1 Measure the length and width with a scale, tape, or
5. Significance and Use caliper gauge. Take care not to distort the foam.
5.1 The test procedures provide a standard method of 8.2 Measure thickness up to and including 25 mm using a
obtaining data for research and development, quality control, height or electronic display gauge with a minimum foot area of
acceptance and rejection under specifications, and special 650 mm2. Hold the pressure of the gauge foot to a maximum
purposes. of 800 Pa (see Note 2). Thicknesses over 25 mm shall be
measured with a height or electronic display gauge, a sliding
5.2 The data obtained by these test methods are applicable
caliper gauge, or as specified in 8.1. When a sliding caliper
to the material under conditions of the particular test and are
gauge is employed, make the gauge setting with the gauge out
not necessarily the same as obtained in other environments in
of contact with the foam. Pass the specimen through the
use.
previously set gauge; the proper setting shall be the one when
the measuring faces of the gauge contact the surfaces of the
6. General Test Conditions
specimen without compressing it.
6.1 Tests shall be entirely conducted at 23 6 2 °C and 50 6
10 % relative humidity, unless otherwise specified in the NOTE 2—For soft foams having compression force deflection values
less than 1.65 kPa, the pressure on the gauge or compression foot shall not
individual test method. The product shall be conditioned, exceed 200 Pa.
undeflected and undistorted, at 23 6 2 °C and 50 6 10 %
relative humidity, for at least 12 h before being tested, unless 8.3 The scale, tape, or gauge shall be graduated so as to
otherwise specified in the individual test method. permit measurements within 61 % of the dimensions to be
measured.
6.2 It is recommended for referee purposes that all tests be
performed seven days or more after the foam has been 8.4 Unless otherwise specified, results shall be the mean of
manufactured. the measurements.

2
 D3574 − 17
TEST A—DENSITY TEST measuring the force necessary to produce designated indenta-
tions in the foam product, for example, indentations at 25 and
9. Scope
65 % deflections. (See Appendix X3 for additional informa-
9.1 This test method covers determination of the density of tion).
uncored foam by calculation from the mass and volume of the
NOTE 4—This standard and ISO 2439 address the same subject matter,
specimen. The density value thus obtained applies only to the
but differ in technical content and results cannot be directly compared
immediate area from which the specimen has been taken. It between the two methods.
does not necessarily relate to the bulk density of the entire
molded pad. 17. Apparatus
NOTE 3—This standard is equivalent to ISO 845. 17.1 An apparatus having a flat circular indenter foot 200
+3/–0 mm in diameter connected by means of a swivel joint
10. Test Specimen
capable of accommodating the angle of the sample to a
10.1 Core Density—A representative specimen of regular force-measuring device and mounted in such a manner that the
shape, circular or square without skins or densification lines, product or specimen can be deflected at a speed of 50 to 250
not less than 10,000 mm3 (~0.61 in.3) in volume, shall be cut mm/min. The apparatus shall be arranged to support the
from a portion free of voids and defects and as near as possible specimen on a level horizontal plate which is perforated with
to the section from which the tension and tear specimens were approximately 6.5-mm holes on approximately 20-mm centers
taken. to allow for rapid escape of air during the test. Special supports
10.2 Section Density—A representative specimen with skins for contoured molded pads shall be perforated in the same
on the top and bottom surface measuring at least 0.1 m2 in area manner as the flat plate, unless otherwise agreed upon between
by full-part thickness, shall be cut from an area free of voids the purchaser and the supplier. Pads longer than the base plate
and defects and as near as possible to the location from which shall be supported from distortion at the 4.5-N contact force
the tension and tear specimens were taken. When these (see 20.3).
dimensions are not possible, the largest representative portion NOTE 5—Equipment design and test fixturing can affect the results of
as agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier, shall be this test. As an example, load cells placed below the support plate can
used. experience a bridging effect that likely does not occur in equipment which
has the load cell mounted above the indenter foot.
11. Number of Specimens
11.1 One specimen shall be tested, unless otherwise agreed 18. Test Specimen
upon by the purchaser and the supplier. 18.1 The test specimen shall consist of the entire product
sample or a suitable portion of it, except that in no case shall
12. Procedure
the specimen have dimensions less than 380 by 380 by 100
12.1 Determine the mass of the specimen to a precision of mm. If specimens are less than (or different from) 100 mm in
61 %. thickness, the thickness shall be noted on the test report.
12.2 Determine the dimensions of the specimen in accor- 18.2 The IFD values for molded products are dependent on
dance with Section 8, and calculate the volume. the specimen dimensions. Higher values are generally obtained
13. Calculation for specimens that retain all molded surfaces.
13.1 Calculate the density in kilograms per cubic metre as 19. Number of Specimens
follows:
19.1 One specimen shall be tested, unless otherwise agreed
Density 5 M/V 3 106 (1) upon by the purchaser and the supplier.
where:
20. Procedure
M = mass of specimen, g, and
V = volume of specimen, mm3. 20.1 Place the test specimen in position on the supporting
plate of the apparatus. If the product has one side cored or
14. Report convoluted, this face shall rest on the perforated plate. The
14.1 Report the following information: specimen position shall be such that, whenever practicable, the
14.1.1 Density to the nearest 0.1 kg/m3, and indentation will be made at the center of the specimen, except
14.1.2 Type of specimen, core or section. when another location is agreed upon by the purchaser and the
supplier.
15. Precision and Bias
20.2 Preflex the test area twice to a deflection of 75 to 80 %
15.1 See Section 151 for Precision and Bias statements.
of the full-part thickness, lowering and raising the indenter foot
TEST B1 —INDENTATION FORCE DEFLECTION at a rate of 250 6 25 mm/min, allowing the indenter to fully
TEST—SPECIFIED DEFLECTION (IFD) clear the top of the specimen after each preflex. For fatigue
tests, or in case repeat testing proves necessary, mark the
16. Scope location of the test area by circumscribing the indenter foot
16.1 This will be known as the indentation force deflection with a pen. Allow the specimen to rest for 6 6 1 min after the
test and the results as the IFD values. This test consists of final preflex.

3
 D3574 − 17
20.3 Bring the indenter foot into contact with the specimen 24.2 Special supports for contoured molded pads shall be
at a rate of 50 6 5 mm/min and determine the thickness while perforated and agreed upon between the purchaser and the
applying a contact force of 4.5 6 0.5 N to the indenter foot. supplier. Pads longer than the base plate shall be supported
For super-soft foam, with a 25 % IFD less than 40 N, a from distortion at the 4.5-N contact force (see 27.2).
reduction of pressure on the indenter foot shall be allowed.
Sufficient contact force to make an accurate initial thickness 25. Test Specimen
measurement is required. Indent the specimen at a rate of 50 6 25.1 When possible, the finished manufactured product
5 mm/min 25 % of this thickness and observe the force in shall be used. In the case of tapered cushions, the location of
newtons after 60 6 3 s. Without removing the specimen, the area for measurement is to be agreed upon between the
increase the deflection to 65 % deflection, allowing the force to purchaser and the supplier. In case a finished part is not feasible
drift while maintaining the 65 % deflection, and again observe for test, 380 by 380-mm specimens of an average thickness are
the force in newtons after 60 6 3 s. to be cut from the cushion.
21. Report 25.2 The IRGL values for molded products are dependent
on the specimen dimensions. Different values are generally
21.1 Report the force in newtons required for 25 % and
obtained for specimens that retain all molded surfaces.
65 % indentation or other indentations (see Note 6). These
figures are known as the 25 % and 65 % IFD values, respec- 26. Number of Specimens
tively. Report length, width, and thickness of the specimen, if
non-standard, and the ratio of 65 % to 25 % IFD values (that is, 26.1 One specimen shall be tested, unless otherwise agreed
support factor, see Appendix X3). upon by the purchaser and the supplier.

NOTE 6—Indentation deflection tests, other than 25 % and 65 %, as well 27. Procedure
as a 25 % return value (25 % RT), may be specified as agreed upon
between the purchaser and the supplier. Alternative or additional deflec-
27.1 Test the whole test specimen or a minimum area of 380
tions shall be performed as described in 20.3. by 380 mm. Position the specimen in the test apparatus with
any cored or convoluted surfaces resting against the perforated
22. Precision and Bias bottom plate. Preflex the specimen twice with a 330 N force,
22.1 See Section 151 for Precision and Bias statements. raising and lowering the indenter foot at 200 6 20 mm/min,
allowing the indenter foot to fully clear the top of the specimen
TEST B2—INDENTATION RESIDUAL GAUGE after each preflex. Allow the specimen to rest for 6 6 1 min
LENGTH TEST—SPECIFIED FORCE (IRGL) after the final preflex.
23. Scope 27.2 At a rate of 50 6 5 mm/min, bring the indenter foot
into contact with and determine the thickness of the specimen,
23.1 Cellular foam products have traditionally been checked
in mm, with a 4.5 6 0.5-N load on the indenter foot.
for indentation force deflection by determining the force
required to effect a 25 % deflection. In seating, on the other 27.3 Apply the 110-N force at 50 6 5 mm/min with the
hand, the interest is in determining how thick the padding is indenter foot until the force is carried by the specimen.
under the average person. Three measurements are called for to Determine the thickness, in mm, at 110 N after maintaining the
meet the requirements of this test method. The force deflection force for 60 6 3 s.
is determined by measuring the thickness of the pad under a 27.4 Without removing the specimen, apply the 220-N force
fixed force of 4.5 N, 110 N, and 220 N, with a 200 + 3/– 0 mm at 50 6 5 mm/min with the indenter foot until the force is
circular indenter foot. carried by the specimen. Determine the thickness, in mm, at
23.2 This determination shall be known as the Indentation 220 N after maintaining the force for 60 6 3 s.
Residual Gauge Length and the measurements as the IRGL
values. 28. Report

NOTE 7—This standard and ISO 2439 address the same subject matter,
28.1 Report the specimen thickness, in mm, at 4.5 N
but differ in technical content; and results cannot be directly compared instantaneously and at 110 N and 220 N after 60 6 3 s. These
between the two methods. figures are known as the IRGL values, respectively. Report the
length, width, and thickness of the specimen.
24. Apparatus
24.1 An apparatus having a flat circular indenter foot 200 29. Precision and Bias
+3/–0 mm in diameter, connected with a swivel joint for 29.1 See Section 151 for Precision and Bias statements.
applying forces of 4.5 N, 110 N, 220 N and 330 N, shall be
mounted over a level horizontal platform that is perforated with TEST C—COMPRESSION FORCE
approximately 6.5-mm holes on approximately 20-mm centers DEFLECTION TEST
to allow for rapid escape of air during the test. The distance
between the indenter foot and the platform shall be variable to 30. Scope
indent the specimen at a speed of 50 to 250 mm/min for 30.1 This test consists of measuring the force necessary to
thickness measurements. The apparatus shall be equipped with produce a 50 % compression over the entire top area of the
a device for measuring the distance between plates. foam specimen.

4
 D3574 − 17
NOTE 8—This standard and ISO 3386 address the same subject matter, 35. Report
but differ in technical content; and results cannot be directly compared
between the two methods. 35.1 Report the thickness after contact force, the 50 %
NOTE 9—Compression force deflection tests other than at 50 % may be compression deflection value in kilopascals, and the dimen-
specified, as agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier, sions of non-standard specimens. Indicate if the sample was
following the procedure in Section 34. cored or convoluted. Report if the specimens contained one or
more molded surfaces.
31. Apparatus
31.1 An apparatus having a flat, fixed compression foot, 36. Precision and Bias
larger than the specimen to be tested, connected to a force- 36.1 See Section 151 for Precision and Bias statements.
measuring device and mounted in a manner such that the
product or specimen can be deflected at a speed of 50 to 500 TEST D—CONSTANT DEFLECTION COMPRESSION
mm/min. The apparatus shall be arranged to support the SET TEST
specimen on a level horizontal plate that is perforated with
approximately 6.5-mm holes on approximately 20-mm centers 37. Scope
to allow for rapid escape of air during the test. 37.1 This test method consists of deflecting the foam
specimen to a specified deflection, exposing it to specified
32. Test Specimens conditions of time and temperature and measuring the change
in the thickness of the specimen after a specified recovery
32.1 The test specimens shall have parallel top and bottom
period.
surfaces and vertical sides. The thickness shall be no greater NOTE 10—This standard and ISO 1856 address the same subject matter,
than 75 % of the minimum top dimension. The standard but differ in technical content and results cannot be directly compared
specimen shall be 50 mm by 50 mm by 25 mm in thickness. between the two methods.
Larger specimens are preferable, where possible.
38. Apparatus
32.2 Specimens shall be a minimum of 2500 mm2 in surface
area and have a minimum thickness of 20 mm. 38.1 Compression Device, consisting of two or more flat
plates arranged so the plates are held parallel to each other by
32.3 Unless otherwise agreed upon by purchaser and bolts or clamps and the space between the plates is adjustable
supplier, specimens from molded parts shall be cut from the to the required deflection thickness by means of spacers. The
core material at least 10 mm below the molded surface. Note in plates shall be metal in composition and have sufficient
the report if the specimens contain one or more molded stiffness to ensure that they are not deflected under the force
surfaces resulting from insufficient core material or contractual necessary to compress all of the specimens. Steel is the
agreement. preferred plate material.
38.2 Mechanically convected air oven capable of maintain-
33. Number of Specimens
ing the conditions of 70 6 2 °C.
33.1 Three specimens per sample shall be tested. The value
NOTE 11—While this method does not set limits on the surface area of
reported shall be the mean value of those observed. the compression plates, the user should be aware that different thermal
conditions can exist for specimens placed at different locations on the
34. Procedure plate.

34.1 Place the specimen, centered in the line of the axial 39. Test Specimens
load, on the supporting plate of the apparatus. If the product
has one side cored or convoluted, rest this face on the 39.1 The test specimens shall have parallel top and bottom
perforated plates. surfaces and essentially perpendicular sides. It is recommended
that the specimens be cut with a band knife or band saw. Die
34.2 Preflex the specimen twice, to a deflection of 75 to cut specimens have a greater tendency to exhibit edge sticking
80 % of its original thickness, lowering and raising the (pillowing) after being removed from the compression device.
compression foot at a rate of 250 6 25 mm/min, allowing the Specimens shall be cut at least 13 mm from any edge that has
compression foot to fully clear the specimen after each preflex. been exposed to light (see Note 13).
Allow the specimen to rest for a period of 6 6 1 min after the
39.2 Specimens shall be 50 by 50 by 25 mm and core,
final preflex.
unless otherwise specified. Specimens less than 25 mm in
34.3 Bring the compression foot into contact with the thickness shall be plied up, without the use of cement, to a
specimen at a rate of 50 6 5 mm/min and determine the 25-mm thickness.
thickness after applying a contact load of 140 6 14 Pa to the 39.3 Specimens from cored foams shall have a minimum
specimen area (see Note 2). Compress the specimen 50 % of top surface area of 100 cm2. The thickness shall be no greater
this thickness at a rate of 50 6 5 mm/min and determine the than 75 % of the minimum top dimension.
final force, in N, after 60 6 3 s (see Note 8).
39.4 Specimens from uncored molded products 25 mm or
Compression Force Deflection, kPa 5 @ force, in N less in thickness shall be 50 by 50 mm by full-part thickness
3 103 # /specimen area, in mm2 and shall contain the top and bottom skin.

5
 D3574 − 17
39.5 Specimens greater than 50 mm in thickness shall be cut NOTE 14—Recovery periods greater than 30 to 40 min may be agreed
to 25 mm thickness from the core (see Note 12). upon by the purchaser and the supplier.
NOTE 12—Specimens from molded products may be tested with one or
both skins by agreement between the purchaser and the supplier. 42. Calculation
NOTE 13—Care should be taken to minimize the exposure of compres-
sion set specimens to visible light. Studies have shown that light can have
42.1 Calculate the compression set value by one of the
a deleterious effect on compression sets.3 If the specimens are not to be following formulas:
tested within 24 hours of being cut from the part or block, they should be
NOTE 15—The Ct calculation is preferred and shall be the calculation
covered or be placed in an opaque container or bag.
used when neither Ct nor Cd are specified.
40. Number of Specimens 42.1.1 Calculate the constant deflection compression set,
40.1 Three specimens per sample shall be tested. The value expressed as a percentage of the original thickness, as follows:
reported shall be the mean of those observed. C t 5 @ ~ t o 2 t f ! /t o # 3 100 (2)

41. Procedure where:

41.1 Conduct all measurements, conditioning, and recovery Ct = compression set expressed as a percentage of the
of the specimens at 23 6 2 °C and in an atmosphere of 50 6 original thickness,
10 % relative humidity, as specified in 6.1. to = original thickness of test specimen, and
tf = final thickness of test specimen.
41.2 Measure the original thickness of the test specimens in
accordance with the procedure described in Section 8. 42.1.2 Calculate the constant deflection compression set,
expressed as a percentage of the original deflection, as follows:
41.3 Place the test specimens in the compression device and
C d 5 @ ~ t o 2 t f ! / ~ t o 2 t s ! # 3 100 (3)
deflect them to 50 6 1 %, 75 6 1 %, or 90 6 1 % of their
original thickness, or to any other deflection agreed upon where:
between the purchaser and the supplier. Space the specimens in Cd = compression set expressed as a percent of the original
the compression device in such a manner that there is at least deflection,
6 mm of separation between specimens in all directions. to = original thickness of test specimen,
41.4 Within 15 min, place the compression device contain- ts = thickness of spacer bar used, and
ing deflected specimens into the mechanically convected air tf = final thickness of test specimen.
oven for a period of 22 h. NOTE 16—Approximate conversion of Ct to Cd can be calculated by
multiplying the 50 % Ct by 2, the 75 % Ct by 1.33, and the 90 % Ct by
41.5 After the 22 h period, remove compression device from 1.11.
the oven. Immediately remove the specimens from the com-
pression device and measure the final thickness in accordance 43. Report
with the procedure described in Section 8 after allowing them 43.1 Report compression set as Ct or Cd, and report deflec-
to recover 30 to 40 min at the temperature and humidity tion used. Also report any non-standard recovery periods or
conditions specified in 41.1. sample sizes and whether the sample was cored, uncored
and/or molded.
3
Blair, G.R., Dawe, B., McEvoy, J., Pask, R., Rusan de Priamus, M., Wright, C.
“The Effect of Visible Light on the Variability of Flexible Foam Compression Sets” 44. Precision and Bias
Center for the Polyurethanes Industry of the American Chemistry Council 2007
Conference Proceedings. 44.1 See Section 151 for Precision and Bias statements.

6
 D3574 − 17
TEST E—TENSILE TEST
45. Scope
45.1 This test method determines the effect of the applica-
tion of a tensile force to foam. Measurements are made for
tensile stress at a predetermined, specified elongation
(optional), tensile strength, and ultimate elongation.
NOTE 17—This standard and ISO 1798 address the same subject matter,
but differ in technical content and results cannot be directly compared
between the two methods.
FIG. 1 Tensile Dumbbell Specimen Dimension Key
46. Apparatus
46.1 Specimens—The specimen for tensile tests shall be
stamped out with a die of the shape (dumbbell) and dimensions
shown in Fig. 2 (D3574 die), or Fig. 3 (Die A of Test Method
D412). The die shall be sharp and free of nicks in order to
prevent leaving ragged edges on the specimen. The ASTM
D412 Die A, shown in Fig. 3, is the preferred die.
46.2 Bench Marker—The marker shall have two parallel
marking edges 1 to 3 mm in thickness and spaced 20 or 25 mm
apart on centers.
46.3 Measurements—The dimensions of the test specimen
FIG. 2 Die for Stamping Tensile Dumbbell Specimens—D3574
shall be determined with a suitable gauge in accordance with Die
Section 8.
46.4 Machine—Tensile tests shall be conducted on a power-
driven machine complying with the following requirements:
46.4.1 The machine shall be equipped with a load cell or
force measuring device to measure the maximum applied
force. The test speed shall be 500 6 50 mm/min, and shall be
uniform at all times.
46.4.2 Elongation shall be determined by either a device
graduated to 2.5 mm for measuring the elongation, by the use
of a non-contact extensometer, or by crosshead travel (also
referred to as grip separation). Extensometers that clip on to the
specimen generally are unsuitable for flexible foam. For testing FIG. 3 Die for Stamping Tensile Dumbbell Specimens—D412A
Die
dumbbell specimens, the machine shall have either screw-type
flat plate grips or a type of grip that tightens automatically and
exerts a uniform pressure across the gripping surfaces, increas-
ing as the tension increases to prevent slipping. 48. Number of Specimens
47. Test Specimens 48.1 Three specimens per sample shall be tested. The value
47.1 The test specimens shall be cut from flat sheet material. reported shall be the mean value of those observed.
Test specimens shall be from 3 - 14 mm in thickness. The foam
rise shall be in the thickness direction, unless otherwise agreed 49. Procedure
upon by purchaser and supplier. The top and bottom surfaces 49.1 Set the grip separation at a minimum of 62.5 mm for
shall be parallel and free of skin. The cut edges shall be the D3574 die and at a minimum of 75 mm for D412 Die A.
perpendicular to the top surface and be free of ragged edges. Place the dumbbell tabs in the grips of the testing machine,
The length of the tabs can be adjusted to fit machine conditions using care to adjust them symmetrically, so that the tension will
provided that all other requirements remain constant. be distributed uniformly over the cross section. The test shall

TABLE 1 Dimension Tolerances of Tensile Dies

Dimension Units Tolerance D3574 Die D412 Die A
A mm ±1 25.4 25
C mm min 139.7 140
G mm ±1 12.7 14
H mm ±2 6.4 25
L mm ±2 34.93 59
W mm +0.05, –0.00 12.7 12

7
 D3574 − 17
be run at a speed of 500 6 50 mm/min, unless otherwise between the two methods.
specified by agreement between purchaser and supplier.
54. Apparatus
49.2 Start the machine and, if measuring elongation by
bench mark, note continuously the distance between the two 54.1 Tear resistance shall be measured on a power-driven
bench marks. machine, which will indicate the maximum force, by mechani-
cal or electronic means, at which rupture of the specimen takes
49.3 If tensile stress at a predetermined elongation was place.
specified, record the stress at the specified percent elongation
(it is also acceptable to note the stress at a predetermined 55. Test Specimens
elongation automatically by means of a recording device, or by
55.1 The test specimens shall be a block shape free of skin,
machine software).
voids, and densification lines, as shown in Fig. 4. They shall be
49.4 At rupture, measure or record elongation to the nearest cut on a saw from sheet material ensuring that the sides are
10 %. parallel and perpendicular to each other. A nominal 40-mm cut
shall be placed in one side as shown in Fig. 4. Dimension A-B
50. Calculation can be reduced to the pad thickness. The thickness shall be
50.1 Calculate the tensile strength by dividing the maximum determined in accordance with Section 8.
breaking force by the original cross-sectional area of the
specimen. 56. Number of Specimens
50.2 Calculate the tensile stress by dividing the force at 56.1 Three specimens per sample shall be tested. The values
predetermined percent elongation by the original cross- reported shall be the mean of those tested.
sectional area of the specimen.
57. Procedure
50.3 Calculate the ultimate elongation, A, by subtracting the
original distance between the bench marks from the total 57.1 Clamp the test specimen in the jaws of the testing
distance between the bench marks at the time of rupture and machine, taking care that the jaws grip the specimen properly.
expressing the difference as a percentage of the original Spread the block so that each tab is held in the jaw to pull
distance, as follows, or use the grip separations in a similar across the specimen. The test speed shall be 500 6 50 mm/min,
calculation. unless otherwise specified by agreement between the purchaser
and the supplier. Aid the cut in the specimen with a razor blade
A, % 5 @ ~ d f 2 d o ! /d o # 3 100 (4) or knife, so as to keep it in the center of the block (Note 19).
where: After the rupture of the specimen, or after at least a 50-mm
do = original distance between bench marks, and length is torn, record the maximum force in newtons and note
df = distance between bench marks at the break point. also the thickness of the specimen (direction A-B).
50.4 The value reported shall be the mean value of all NOTE 19—For foams that will not tear by this method, side by side tear
strength comparisons can be made by testing in accordance with Test
specimens tested. Method D624, using Type C die. It shall be noted that the D624 Type C
tear test is a tear initiating measurement, as opposed to a tear propagating
51. Report measurement, as in this block tear test.
51.1 Report the following information:
58. Calculation
51.1.1 Tensile strength in kilopascals.
51.1.2 Tensile stress in kilopascals at predetermined elon- 58.1 Calculate the tear strength from the maximum force
gation. registered on the testing machine and the average thickness of
51.1.3 Ultimate elongation, in percent, and whether bench the specimen (direction A-B), as follows:
marks, grip separation or extensometers were used to measure Tear strength, N/m 5 F/T 3 103 (5)
elongation.
51.1.4 Crosshead speed, if other than 500 mm/min. where:
F = force, N, and
52. Precision and Bias T = thickness, mm.
52.1 See Section 151 for Precision and Bias statements.
TEST F—TEAR RESISTANCE TEST

53. Scope
53.1 This test method covers determination of the tear
propagation resistance of foam. The block method, as
described, measures the tear resistance under the conditions of
this particular test.
NOTE 18—This standard and ISO 8067 address the same subject matter,
but differ in technical content and results cannot be directly compared FIG. 4 Tear Resistance Test Specimens

8
 D3574 − 17
59. Report using the equipment specified in Test Method D737. Direct correlations
between Test Method D737 and this method have been established,
59.1 Report the following information: although some modification of the D737 equipment could be necessary.4
59.1.1 Tear strength in newtons per metre. Test Method D3574 air flow times 36 will give an approximate value for
59.1.2 Orientation of specimen. Test Method D737 air flow.
59.1.3 Crosshead speed, if other than 500 mm/min.
62. Terminology
60. Precision and Bias 62.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
60.1 See Section 151 for Precision and Bias statements. 62.1.1 air flow value—the volume of air per second at
standard temperature and atmospheric pressure required to
TEST G—AIR FLOW TEST maintain a constant pressure differential of 125 Pa across a
flexible foam specimen approximately 50 by 50 by 25 mm.
61. Scope
62.1.2 air flow parallel to foam rise—the air flow value
61.1 The air flow test measures the ease with which air obtained when the air enters and leaves the mounted specimen
passes through a cellular structure. Air flow values can be used parallel to foam rise.
as an indirect measurement of certain cell structure character-
istics. The test consists of placing a flexible foam core 63. Apparatus
specimen in a cavity over a chamber and creating a specified 63.1 A schematic drawing of the apparatus, including the
constant air pressure differential. The rate of flow of air specimen mounting chamber, manometer, air flow meters,
required to maintain this pressure differential is the air flow blow meters, blower, and voltage control, is shown in Fig. 5.
value. This test is normally for slab foam products or for the
core materials of molded products. Alternative methods can be 63.2 Chamber, consisting of a pot approximately 130 mm in
used to measure air flow through molded skins or extremely diameter and 150 mm high, with provision for mounting the
high air flow products (see Note 21). foam specimen and fittings for the manometer and air exhaust.
NOTE 20—This standard is identical to ISO 7231.
NOTE 21—For measuring air flow of products, such as very tight 4
Gummaraju, R.V., Pask, R.F., Koller, H.J., Wujcik, S.E., and Reimann, K.A.,
viscoelastic foams or very high air flow foams, which can have air flows “Evaluation, Modification and Adaptation of an Airflow Test Method for Polyure-
beyond the range of this method, very good success has been achieved by thane Foams,” Journal of Cellular Plastics , May/June 2001.

FIG. 5 Air Flow Apparatus Schematic Diagram

9
 D3574 − 17
The specimen mount cavity shall be 50.0 6 0.5 by 50.0 6 0.5 65. Procedure
by 25.0 6 0.5 mm in size. Four foam support vanes approxi- 65.1 Measure each specimen in accordance with the proce-
mately 1 mm thick and 12.5 mm high shall be placed under the dure described in Section 8 to verify the specimen size.
opening to prevent the foam from being pulled into the vacuum
chamber. The vanes shall be spaced 12.5 mm on center from 65.2 Insert the specimen into the test cavity. Make sure that
each other and also centered relative to the bottom of the cavity a good air seal is obtained along all edges. The top of the
opening. The manometer fitting shall enter a 1-mm hole specimen shall be flush with the top of the test chamber.
midway along the side of the chamber. A 25-mm pipe fitting 65.3 With all valves closed, adjust the voltage control of the
shall be used as the exhaust outlet from the center of the bottom apparatus to 30 %.
of the chamber.
65.4 Open one flow-control valve slowly until a pressure
63.3 Manometer, calibrated from 0 to 250 Pa and having an differential of 100 to 150 Pa is obtained. Adjust the voltage
accuracy of 62 %, is required. An inclined oil manometer with control carefully to obtain a pressure differential of 125 6 1 Pa.
graduations of 2 Pa is recommended. A level mounted on the
manometer shall be used to ensure that the proper degree of 65.5 After this pressure differential has been maintained for
inclination from the horizontal is maintained. Traps shall be at least 10 s, read the scale of the flow meter.
provided to prevent indicating fluid from being accidentally 65.6 If this reading is off-scale or less than 10 % of full
drawn into the chamber. Appendix X5 describes a suggested scale, close that flow-control valve and open a more appropri-
method for the verification of the inclined oil manometer. The ate one. Repeat this process until the proper manometer
manometer can alternatively be replaced with a 0-250 Pa reading and air flow is achieved.
magnehelic gauge with graduations of 5 Pa.
65.7 The air flow value shall be obtained from the flow
63.4 Flow Meters and Blower—Low-pressure-drop air flow meter scale directly, estimated from a calibration chart, or
meters accurate to 62 % shall be used for air-flow measure- calculated with a factor depending on the calibration system.
ments. A given flow meter shall not be used for values less than
10 % of full scale. Air flow meters with at least 250-mm scales 66. Report
are recommended. Since the flow meter calibration is
temperature-and pressure-dependent, the use of the apparatus 66.1 Report the following information:
under ambient conditions can result in erroneous readings. In 66.1.1 Mean air flow value in cubic metres per minute for
cases of dispute, the apparatus shall be used under standard each location and orientation.
conditions of 23°C and 100 kPa (1 atm pressure), or else a 66.1.2 Dimensions of the specimens.
suitable calibration correction applied. Flow meters that range 66.1.3 Dimension of the mount cavity of the apparatus.
from 0 to 0.01 m3 /s will cover a wide range of foam cell
structures, but a lesser range can be used. Actual flow is 67. Precision and Bias
adjusted by a combination of valve restriction and blower 67.1 See Section 151 for Precision and Bias statements.
speed. The two-way valves shall be mounted on the output side
of the flow meter to maintain the pressure drop across the flow TEST H—RESILIENCE (BALL REBOUND) TEST
meter constant at any given flow level. A vacuum cleaner type
unit shall be used for an exhaust blower. 68. Scope
63.5 Leak Test—To check the apparatus for leaks, the 68.1 This test consists of dropping a steel ball on a foam
specimen mount cavity shall be sealed with masking tape. With specimen and noting the height of rebound.
all valves closed, turn on the exhaust blower to approximately
1⁄3 power and observe any movement of the manometer. The NOTE 22—This standard is identical to ISO 8307.
manometer reading, if any, shall not exceed 1 Pa after a 30-s
waiting period. Next, open the valve very slightly for the 69. Apparatus
lowest range flow meter reading. The flow shall be essentially 69.1 The ball rebound tester shall consist of a 40 6 4-mm
zero, as evidenced by a less than 3-mm movement of the air inside diameter vertical clear plastic (such as acrylic) tube, into
flow meter float from its static position. For the equipment to which a 16.0 6 0.2-mm diameter steel ball, weighing 16.3 6
perform satisfactorily over its entire range, the requirements 0.2 g, is released by a magnet or other device. The steel ball
for both parts of the leak test must be met. must be released so that it falls without rotation. Centering of
the ball is assured by a recess at the base of the magnet. The
64. Test Specimens
height of drop shall be 500 mm. Since it is most convenient to
64.1 The test specimens shall be parallelepiped cut to fit the note the position of the top of the ball on rebound, the top of
mount cavity of the apparatus. A cavity 50 by 50 mm requires the ball shall be 516 mm above the surface of the foam. Thus,
a specimen 51.0 6 0.3 by 51.0 6 0.3 by 25.0 6 0.5 mm in size. “zero” rebound shall be 16.0 6 0.2 mm (diameter of ball)
A band saw with a movable table and a double-bevel knife- above the specimen surface. The scale on the tube shall be
edge blade is recommended for cutting the specimens. scribed directly in percent as follows. Every 5 %, a complete
64.2 Three specimens per sample shall be cut parallel to the circle shall be scribed and every 1 %, a 120° arc shall be
foam rise. See 62.1.2. The values reported shall be the mean of scribed. The complete circles are an essential part of the
those observed for each location and orientation. apparatus, since they are used to eliminate parallax error.

10
 D3574 − 17
70. Test Specimens TEST I1—STATIC FORCE LOSS TEST AT
CONSTANT
70.1 The test specimens shall have parallel top and bottom
DEFLECTION
surfaces.
70.2 The test specimens shall consist of the entire product 77. Scope
sample or a suitable portion of it, except that in no case shall 77.1 The purpose of this static force loss test is to deter-
the thickness be less than 30 mm. The standard specimen size mine: (1) loss in IFD values, (2) loss in thickness, and (3)
shall be 100 mm by 100 mm by 50 mm. For molded products, structural breakdown as assessed by visual examination.
the top skin shall be removed. 77.2 This procedure tests the specimen at a 75 % constant
deflection.
71. Number of Specimens
NOTE 23—There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard.
71.1 Three specimens per sample shall be tested. The three
specimens can be obtained by using separate specimens or 78. Apparatus
different locations on a given specimen. 78.1 The apparatus shall consist of two parallel plates
(wood or metal) that will produce a uniform, constant deflec-
72. Procedure tion of the specimen. The plates shall be 500 by 500 mm
square, and spacer bars or other appropriate means shall be
72.1 Center the specimen at the base of the tube and adjust employed to maintain a constant 75 % deflection throughout
the height of the tube so that zero rebound is 16.0 6 0.2 mm the test.
above the surface of the foam specimen.
79. Test Specimen
72.2 Mount the steel ball on the release mechanism, then
drop it and note the maximum rebound height (top of ball). If 79.1 The test specimen shall be 380 by 380 mm by the
the ball strikes the tube on the drop or rebound, the value desired thickness. One specimen shall be tested.
obtained is invalid. This condition is usually due to the tube not 80. Initial Measurements
being vertical or irregularities on the specimen surface. In
order to minimize parallax error, the circles on the tube in the 80.1 Measure the 25 and 65 % IFD of the test specimen in
region where the percent rebound is read must appear as lines. accordance with Sections 16 to 22. Measure the original
thickness with 4.5 6 0.5 N contact force after preflexing.
72.3 Make an additional two drops on the same specimen in
the same location, noting the maximum rebound height, unless 81. Procedure
otherwise agreed upon by the purchaser and the supplier. 81.1 Place the specimen between the plates with the spacer
bars to provide a 75 % deflection. Clamp the plates and hold at
73. Calculation 75 % deflection for 22 h.
73.1 Calculate the mean of the three rebound values. 82. Final Measurements
82.1 Measure the final IFD values 60 6 5 min after the
74. Report
fatigue test is completed in accordance with 80.1, using the
74.1 Report the mean of the three specimens’ mean values original thickness to determine the deflection for the final IFD
as the ball rebound resilience value in percent. values.
74.2 Report if measurements were obtained from different 82.2 If the loss in thickness is above 10 %, the IFD losses
locations on a single specimen or on separate specimens. shall not be calculated and only the thickness loss shall be
reported.
75. Precision and Bias 82.3 For a measurement of more permanent fatigue, repeat
82.1, except allow 24 6 1 h of recovery time rather than
75.1 See Section 151 for Precision and Bias statements.
60 6 5 min.
TEST I—DURABILITY TESTS
83. Calculation and Inspection
76. Scope 83.1 Check the specimen for physical breakdown of the
cellular structure by visual examination and comparison with
76.1 The durability tests consist of five methods: unflexed specimens.
76.1.1 Static Force Loss Test at Constant Deflection, 83.2 Calculate the percent loss in thickness, as follows:
76.1.2 Dynamic Fatigue by Roller Shear at Constant Force,
~to 2 tf !
76.1.3 Dynamic Fatigue Test by Constant Force Pounding, Ft 5 3 100 (6)
~to !
76.1.4 Dynamic Fatigue Test for Carpet Cushion, and
where:
76.1.5 Dynamic Fatigue Test by Constant Deflection Pound-
Ft = loss in thickness, %,
ing.

11
 D3574 − 17

to = original specimen thickness, and 87.4 Any suitable method for holding the test specimen
tf = final specimen thickness. securely on the roller base platen is acceptable, as long as the
test specimen remains stationary during the rolling flex cycles.
83.3 Calculate the percent loss of IFD, as follows:
An acceptable method for retaining the specimen on the base
~Lo 2 Lf ! platen is described as follows: four pieces of cotton sheeting or
FL 5 3 100 (7)
~Lo ! paper masking tape 50 to 75 mm wide and at least 50 mm
where: longer than each side of the test specimen shall be required.
Bond the cotton strips or the masking tape along the edges of
FL = loss of indentation force deflection, %,
Lo = original indentation force deflection value, and the base surface of the test specimen with a solvent or
Lf = final indentation force deflection value. water-emulsion-type of adhesive. Allow 25 to 50 mm of each
strip to extend beyond the edges of the test specimen so that the
84. Report test specimen can be securely clamped to the base platen
through the use of suitable metal retainer straps.
84.1 Report the following information:
84.1.1 Percent loss in thickness, and the percent loss of 25 88. Test Specimen
and 65 % IFD if the thickness loss is less than 10 %.
84.1.2 Results of visual examination. 88.1 A specimen 380 mm long by 300 mm wide by 50 mm
thick is used. The thickness of specimens tested shall be at least
84.1.3 Recovery time, whether 60 6 5 min or 24 6 1 h.
25 mm and no greater than 125 mm. Normally, full-part
thickness is used where the top and bottom surfaces are
85. Precision and Bias
essentially parallel and fall within the thickness limits. Where
85.1 See Section 151 for Precision and Bias statements. part thickness exceeds 125 mm or the bottom surface is
contoured so that the surfaces are not essentially parallel, the
bottom surface shall be sliced to provide a flat surface
TEST I2 —DYNAMIC FATIGUE TEST BY ROLLER
essentially parallel to the top surfaces (see Section 7).
SHEAR AT CONSTANT FORCE
88.2 The length and width dimensions shall be held to a
86. Scope tolerance of 66.5 mm and shall be saw cut or die cut.
86.1 This procedure fatigues the specimen dynamically at a 88.3 One specimen shall be tested, unless otherwise agreed
constant force, deflecting the material both vertically and upon by the purchaser and the supplier.
laterally. The purpose of this dynamic fatigue test is to
determine (1) loss in IRGL values, (2) loss in thickness, and (3) 89. Initial Measurements
structural breakdown as assessed by visual examination. 89.1 Bond suitable hold-down cloth or masking tape to the
86.2 The fatigue test shall be conducted by either Procedure bottom edges of the specimen so the specimen can be secured
A or Procedure B. Both test procedures are the same and differ to the perforated base platen of the fatigue tester.
only in the number of cycles used. Procedure A shall use 8,000 89.2 Determine the IRGL in accordance with Sections 23 –
cycles (approximately 5 h) and Procedure B shall use 20,000 29.
cycles (approximately 12 h). It shall be noted that a single
cycle is actually two passes over the foam sample, that is, a 90. Procedure
complete forward and reverse stroke.
90.1 Adjust the roller to obtain a constant force of 130 6 2
NOTE 24—There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard. N on the foam specimen (Note 25). This critical measurement
NOTE 25—The mass of the roller and the number of cycles can be can be made by fashioning a lightweight fabric sling around the
changed as agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier. roller at its center and measuring the downward force while
holding the force scale vertically over the roller and maintain-
87. Apparatus (Appendix X2) ing the roller axis in a horizontal plane with the pivot axis.
87.1 Perforated-Base Platen, approximately 500 by 500 by 90.2 Set the vertical adjustment of the roller or the mounting
10 mm with a finished ground-top surface and with perforation base by placing the specimen in position and lowering the
of approximately 6.5-mm centers covering the center 360 by roller so it is supported by the specimen. Observe the pivot axis
360-mm portion. and roller axis relationship and adjust the vertical height so that
87.2 Roller, 450-mm minimum length and 76.0 6 1.3 the axes lie in an essentially horizontal plane at the start of the
mm-diameter made from stainless steel or chrome-plated metal test.
having a minimum surface finish of 1 µm. The roller shall be 90.3 Mount the test specimen on the base platen with the
mounted in an offset position (15 6 3°) with suitable means of long dimension parallel to the stroke of the dynamic fatigue
adjustment for a specified loading of the test specimen. The machine and secure by means of the aforementioned cotton/
force imparted by the roller assembly shall not exceed 110 N. cloth strips or tape glued previously to specimen bottom and
87.3 The test is conducted at a frequency of 0.50 6 0.05 Hz. metal retainer straps (see 87.4). When mounting cored pieces,
A cycle is a complete forward and reverse stroke. The length of coring is to be against the platen. Set the counter to zero, start
the stroke shall be 300 6 10 mm. the machine, and fatigue test the sample for either 8,000 cycles

12
 D3574 − 17
(Procedure A) or 20,000 cycles (Procedure B) or an alternate in the number of cycles used. Procedure A shall use 8,000
number of cycles, if specified by the purchaser. cycles (approximately 2 h) and Procedure B shall use 80,000
cycles (approximately 19 h). Procedure C calls for 12,000
91. Final Measurements cycles at a slower cycling rate (approximately 20 h). See 96.3.
91.1 Within 60 6 5 min after the fatigue test is completed, NOTE 26—This standard is equivalent to ISO 3385.
measure the final IRGL in accordance with 89.2.
91.2 For a measurement of more permanent fatigue, repeat 96. Apparatus
91.1, except allow 24 6 1 h of recovery rather than 60 6 5 96.1 Perforated Base Platen, approximately 500 by 500 by
min. 10 mm, with finished ground-top surface and with perforation
of approximately 6.5-mm diameter holes on 20-mm centers,
92. Calculation and Inspection over a minimum central area of 350 by 350 mm.
92.1 Check the specimen for physical breakdown of cellular 96.2 A flat circular fixed indenter that exerts a force of 750
structure by visual examination and comparison with unflexed 6 20 N on the test specimen at maximum indentation. The
similar specimens. indenter shall have an overall diameter of 250 6 1 mm with a
92.2 Calculate and report the percent loss in thickness, as 25 6 1-mm radius at the lower edge, to prevent cutting hard
follows: foam. The indenter mechanism is usually comprised of either
@ 100~ A 2 B ! # A) a weighted system, or B) a system using a platen and force
Thickness loss, % 5 (8) measuring device (for example, load cell) to ensure the
~A!
specified constant force. If a weighted system is used, the
where: indenter shall be fashioned to be completely supported by only
A = original thickness under compression forces of 4.5 N, the specimen at the end of its stroke (that is, at the end of its
110 N, and 220 N, and stroke, zero force exerted by the machine, all force due to the
B = final thickness under the same indentation forces. machine-unsupported indenter weight only), in order to pre-
92.3 If requested by the purchaser, calculate the total loss vent overloading of the specimen. Specimen softening will
number, as follows: necessitate stroke distance adjustments, in order to maintain
constant force.
Total Loss Number 5 Sum of % Losses at each Force (9)
Sample Calculation:
96.3 By means of a crank or other suitable mechanism, (for
Percent thickness loss at 4.5 N = 2.0 example, actuator), the machine shall be capable of oscillating
Percent thickness loss at 110 N = 18.0 either the platen carrying the test specimen or the indenter
Percent thickness loss at 220 N = 27.0
Total Loss Number = 47.0
support mounting towards each other in a vertical direction at
a frequency of 70 6 5 cycles per minute for Procedures A and
93. Report B. For Procedure C, the frequency shall be 10 6 1 cycles per
93.1 Report the following information: minute.
93.1.1 Percent loss in thickness and IRGL values.
93.1.2 The number of cycles. 97. Test Specimen
93.1.3 Total loss number, if requested. 97.1 The test specimen shall be 380 by 380 by 50 mm. One
93.1.4 Results of visual examination. specimen shall be tested, unless otherwise agreed upon by the
93.1.5 Recovery time, whether 60 6 5 min or 24 6 1 h. purchaser and the supplier.
94. Precision and Bias 98. Initial Measurement
94.1 See Section 151 for Precision and Bias statements. 98.1 Measure the 40 % IFD of the test specimen in accor-
dance with Sections 16 – 22. Measure the original thickness
TEST I3 —DYNAMIC FATIGUE TEST BY CONSTANT with 4.5 6 0.5 N contact force after preflexing.
FORCE POUNDING
99. Procedure
95. Scope
99.1 Mount the specimen on the base platen. Set the counter
95.1 The purpose of this fatigue test is to determine: (1) loss
to zero, start the machine, and fatigue the test specimen for
of force support at 40 % IFD (indentation force deflection), (2)
8,000 cycles (Procedure A), 80,000 cycles (Procedure B), or
loss in thickness, and (3) structural breakdown as assessed by
12,000 cycles (Procedure C), in accordance with 96.3. Proce-
visual inspection. Deflections other than 40 % can be used, as
dure C shall be used for slow recovery (viscoelastic) foams
agreed upon between the purchaser and the supplier.
where the cycle speed is slow enough to allow enough time
95.2 This procedure describes tests that evaluate the speci- between cycles for the foam to recover its height.
men by repeatedly deflecting the material with a flat-horizontal
fixed indenter exerting a vertical force of 750 6 20 N on the 100. Final Measurement
test specimen. 100.1 Within 60 6 5 min after the fatigue test is completed,
95.3 This fatigue test shall be conducted by Procedure A, repeat 98.1 using the original thickness to determine the
Procedure B, or Procedure C. Procedures A and B differ only deflection for the final force reading.

13
 D3574 − 17
100.2 For a measurement of more permanent fatigue, repeat 102.1.3 Recovery time, whether 60 6 5 min or 24 6 1 h.
100.1, except allow 24 6 1 h of recovery rather than 60 6 5
min. 103. Precision and Bias
100.3 If the loss in thickness is above 10 %, final IFD shall 103.1 See Section 151 for Precision and Bias statements. A
not be measured and only the thickness loss shall be reported. round robin for Procedure C is being planned and the data will
be available by the end of 2018.
101. Calculation and Inspection
101.1 Check the specimen for physical breakdown of the TEST I4—DYNAMIC FATIGUE TEST FOR CARPET
cellular structure by visual examination and comparison with CUSHION
unflexed specimens.
104. Scope
101.2 Calculate the percent loss in thickness, as follows:
104.1 The purpose of this test is to determine: (1) retention
~to 2 tf ! of load bearing (65 % IFD), (2) loss in thickness, and (3)
Ft 5 3 100 (10)
~to ! structural breakdown as assessed by visual inspection.
where: 104.2 This procedure describes tests that evaluate the speci-
Ft = loss in thickness, %, men by repeatedly deflecting the carpet cushion by a 152 mm
to = original specimen thickness, and diameter and 152 mm wide rubber covered roller exerting a
tf = final specimen thickness. force of 266 6 5 N on the test specimens.
101.3 Calculate the percent loss of force deflection, as 104.3 This fatigue test shall be conducted by either Proce-
follows: dure A or Procedure B. The test procedures differ only in the
~Fo 2 Ff ! number of cycles used. Procedure A shall use 8,000 cycles
FL 5 3 100 (11) (approximately 5 h) and Procedure B shall use 40,000 cycles
Fo
(approximately 24 h). It shall be noted that a single cycle is
where: actually two passes over the foam sample, that is, a complete
FL = loss of 40 % indentation force deflection, %, forward and reverse stroke.
Fo = original 40 % indentation force deflection value, and
Ff = final 40 % indentation force deflection value. NOTE 27—There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard.

102. Report 105. Apparatus (Appendix X2)

102.1 Report the following information: 105.1 The apparatus is identical to that described in Section
102.1.1 Percent change in thickness, and the percent change 87 with the following changes: the roller described in 104.2
in 40 % IFD, if the thickness change is less than 10 %, and replaces the longer roller and is attached perpendicularly. The
102.1.2 Results of visual examination. base platen is replaced or covered with a 19 mm thick plywood

FIG. 6 Three-station Carpet Cushion Fatigue Tester

14
 D3574 − 17
for mounting the sample. The sample is secured with floor 112. Precision and Bias
tacks or staples. (See Fig. 6 for test apparatus.) 112.1 Round robin testing to determine the precision of this
method is being planned and the data will be available by the
106. Test Specimen end of 2018.
106.1 The specimen is 380 mm long and 230 mm wide and
13 6 1 mm thick, unless otherwise agreed upon by the TEST I5—DYNAMIC FATIGUE TEST BY CONSTANT
purchaser and the supplier. DEFLECTION POUNDING

107. Initial Measurements 113. Scope

107.1 Preflex the specimen two times to 75 % of the 113.1 The purpose of this fatigue test is to determine: (1) %
nominal thickness. After a 6 6 1 min rest, measure the original loss in thickness, (2) % loss of 25 % IFD, and (3) structural
thickness, to, in accordance with Section 8, and determine the breakdown as assessed by visual inspection. IFD testing at
original 65 % IFD, Fo, in accordance with Sections 16 – 22 deflections other than 25 % (for example, at 40 % IFD or 50 %
using a 102 + 2/– 0 mm diameter flat circular indenter foot. IFD) can be used, as agreed upon between the purchaser and
the supplier.
108. Procedure 113.2 This procedure evaluates the specimen for durability
108.1 Secure the sample to the plywood base using staples by repeatedly deflecting the entire sample by 75 % of its
or tape, making sure that the roller will not roll over the stapled original height with a moving platen that is larger than the test
areas. Set the counter to zero, start the machine, and fatigue the piece, that is, a standard 50 mm thick specimen shall be
sample for 8,000 or 40,000 cycles. deflected to a height of 12.5 mm. Deflections other than 75 %
of the original height can be used as agreed upon between the
109. Final Measurements purchaser and the supplier.
109.1 Within 60 6 5 min after the fatigue test is completed 113.3 This fatigue test shall be conducted by Procedure A,
measure the final thickness, tf, in accordance with Section 8, Procedure B, or Procedure C. Procedures A and B differ only
and the final 65 % IFD, Ff, in accordance with 107.1, using the in the number of cycles used. Procedure A shall use 8,000
original thickness, to, to determine the 65 % IFD deflection. cycles (approximately 2 h) and Procedure B shall use 80,000
cycles (approximately 19 h) at 70 6 5 cycles/min. Procedure C
109.2 For a measurement of more permanent fatigue, repeat
calls for 12,000 cycles at a slower cycling rate of 10 6 1
109.1, except allow 24 6 1 h of recovery rather than 60 6 5
cycles/min (approximately 20 h). Procedure C shall be used for
min.
slow recovery (viscoelastic) foams where the cycle speed is
slow enough to allow enough time between cycles for the foam
110. Calculation and Inspection
to recover its height.
110.1 Check the specimen for physical breakdown by visual
113.4 This test was originally in ASTM D1564 Fatigue Test
examination.
(Suffix H) Procedure C. This version changes the thickness of
110.2 Calculate and report the percent loss in thickness, as the test specimen from 100 mm to 50 mm to standardize it with
follows: the constant force pounding and static fatigue methods within
~to 2 tf ! this standard.
Ft 5 3 100 (12) NOTE 28—There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard.
~to !
where: 114. Apparatus
Ft = loss in thickness, %, 114.1 Perforated Base Platen, approximately 500 by 500 by
to = original specimen thickness, and 10 mm, with finished ground-top surface and with perforation
tf = final specimen thickness.
of approximately 6.5-mm diameter holes on 20-mm centers,
110.3 Calculate the percent IFD retention, as follows: over a minimum central area of 350 by 350 mm.
~ F o 2 F f 3 100! 114.2 A flat upper platen that is larger than the sample being
R 5 100 2 (13)
~ F o! tested shall be used.
where: 114.3 By means of a crank or other suitable mechanism, the
R = IFD retention, %, machine shall be capable of oscillating either the upper or
Fo = original IFD force, and lower platen towards the other in a vertical direction at a
Ff = final IFD force. frequency of 70 6 5 cycles per minute.

111. Report 115. Test Specimen

111.1 Report the following information: 115.1 The standard test specimen shall be 380 by 380 by 50
111.1.1 Percent loss in thickness, and percent retention of mm and is the default size unless otherwise agreed upon by the
65 % indentation force deflection. purchaser and the supplier. One specimen shall be tested,
111.1.2 Recovery time, whether 60 6 5 min or 24 6 1 h. unless otherwise agreed upon.

15
 D3574 − 17
116. Initial Measurements AGING TEST J—STEAM AUTOCLAVE AGING
116.1 Measure the 25 % IFD of the test specimen in
122. Scope
accordance with Sections 16 – 22. Measure the original
thickness with 4.5 6 0.5 N contact force after preflexing. 122.1 This test consists of exposing the foam specimens in
a low-pressure steam autoclave and observing the effects on the
117. Procedure properties of the foam. Use either of the following procedures,
117.1 Mount the specimen on the base platen. Set the J1 or J2:
counter to zero, start the machine, and fatigue the test specimen 122.1.1 Procedure J1, 3 h at 105 6 3 °C.
for 8,000 cycles (Procedure A), 80,000 cycles (Procedure B) or 122.1.2 Procedure J2, 5 h at 120 6 5 °C.
12,000 cycles (Procedure C) in accordance with 113.3. NOTE 29—This standard and ISO 2440 address the same subject matter,
but differ in technical content and results cannot be directly compared
118. Final Measurements between the two methods.

118.1 Within 60 6 5 min after the fatigue test is completed, 123. Apparatus
repeat 116.1 using the original thickness to determine the
deflection for the final force reading. 123.1 Steam Autoclave, or similar vessel, that is thermo-
statically controlled to 62 °C and capable of withstanding
118.2 For a measurement of more permanent fatigue, repeat gauge pressures of up to 140 kPa.
118.1, except allow 24 6 1 h of recovery rather than 60 6 5
min. 124. Procedure
118.3 If the loss in thickness is above 10 %, the final IFD 124.1 Fill the autoclave with distilled or deionized water to
shall not be measured and only the thickness loss shall be a level 50 mm above the bottom of the autoclave. Set the
reported. thermostat control to the desired test temperature, which is
either 105 6 3 °C or 120 6 5 °C. Allow the autoclave to heat
119. Calculation and Inspection until the water boils. Place the specimens on edge on a rack in
119.1 Check the specimen for physical breakdown of the the inside container and ensure that one specimen does not
cellular structure by visual examination and comparison with touch another or any metal except at the supporting surface.
unflexed specimens. Place the container inside the autoclave and close and tighten
the top. Leave the safety valve open until all the air is out of the
119.2 Calculate the percent loss in thickness, as follows:
autoclave. This is apparent when steam begins blowing out of
~ t o 2 t f! the ports on the safety valve. Close the valve 2 min after the
Ft 5 3 100 (14)
~ t o! appearance of steam, and begin the zero time of the heat at this
where: point.
Ft = loss in thickness, %, 124.2 After the exposure period, turn off the heat, release
to = original specimen thickness, and the steam pressure, and remove the specimens without delay.
tf = final specimen thickness. Dry the specimens for 3 h for each 25 mm of thickness at 100
119.3 Calculate the percent loss of IFD, as follows: 6 5 °C in a mechanically convected dry air oven. Condition
specimens for at least 2 h at 23 6 2 °C and 50 6 10 % relative
~ F o 2 F f! humidity.
FL 5 3 100) (15)
~ F o!
124.3 Test each specimen for the prescribed property in
where: accordance with the appropriate test method.
FL = loss of 25 % IFD, % NOTE 30—A drying temperature of 70 °C shall be used where 100 °C
Fo = original 25 % IFD force, and adversely affects the final properties upon agreement by the purchaser and
Ff = final 25 % IFD. the supplier.

120. Report 125. Calculation

120.1 Report the following information: 125.1 Calculate the percent change in physical property, as
120.1.1 Percent change in thickness and the percent change follows:
in 25 % IFD if the thickness change is less than 10 %.
~ P o 2 P f!
120.1.2 Results of visual examination. Physical property change, % 5 3 100 (16)
~Po !
120.1.3 Recovery time, whether 60 6 5 min or 24 6 1.
120.1.4 Specimen size prior to fatigue test—length, width where:
and thickness. Po = mean property of the unexposed specimen, and
120.1.5 Percent deflection (75 % or deflection specified by Pf = mean property of the exposed specimen.
the purchaser and the supplier).
126. Report
121. Precision and Bias 126.1 Report the following information:
121.1 See Section 151 for Precision and Bias statements. 126.1.1 Percent change in physical property.

16
 D3574 − 17
126.1.2 Test procedure J1 or J2. for sensing and recording the temperature of the oven at least
every 2 h shall be attached.
127. Precision and Bias
NOTE 33—Other temperature and humidity conditions can be used as
127.1 The precision of this method is dependent on the agreed upon by the purchaser and the supplier.
material property that is being measured.
136. Procedure
AGING TEST K—DRY HEAT AGING 136.1 Place the specimens into the environmental chamber
128. Scope set to the temperature and humidity conditions specified in
135.1, making sure they do not touch each other. For wet
128.1 This test consists of exposing foam specimens in an compression sets, the specimens shall be clamped into the test
air-circulating oven and observing the effects on the properties fixture before putting them into the chamber. Expose the
of the foam. specimens for 22 h 6 5 min, or as agreed upon by the
NOTE 31—This standard and ISO 2439 address the same subject matter, purchaser and the supplier.
but differ in technical content and results cannot be directly compared
between the two methods.
136.2 After the exposure period, remove the specimens
from the chamber and from any fixturing and then condition
129. Apparatus them for not less than 2 h at 23 6 2 °C and 50 6 10 % relative
129.1 Air-Circulating Oven, capable of maintaining 140 6 humidity. For wet compression sets, after removing the speci-
2 °C for exposing the specimens. A device for sensing and mens from the fixtures, allow the specimens to recover as
recording the temperature of the oven at least every 2 h shall be specified in 41.5.
attached. 136.3 Perform any measurements and calculations specified
in the test method being evaluated.
130. Procedure
137. Calculation
130.1 Expose the specimens for 22 h at 140 6 2 °C. Obtain
and record the oven temperature near the specimen at least 137.1 Calculate the percent change in physical property, as
every 2 h. follows:
130.2 Condition specimens for not less than 2 h at 23 6 @ ~ P o 2 P f! #
Physical property change, % 5 3 100 (18)
2 °C and 50 6 10 % relative humidity. ~ P o!
where
131. Calculation
Po = mean property of the unexposed specimen, and
131.1 Calculate the percent change in physical property, as Pf = mean property of the exposed specimen.
follows:
~~ P o 2 P f !! 138. Report
Physical property change, % 5 3 100 (17)
~Po ! 138.1 Report the following information:
138.1.1 Percent change in physical property.
where:
Po = mean property of the unexposed specimen, and 139. Precision and Bias
Pf = mean property of the exposed specimen. 139.1 The precision of this method is dependent on the
132. Report material property that is being measured.
132.1 Report the following information: TEST M—RECOVERY TIME
132.1.1 Percent change in physical property.
140. Scope
133. Precision and Bias 140.1 This method is used to determine the recovery time of
133.1 The precision of this method is dependent on the slow recovery (viscoelastic) foams.
material property that is being measured. NOTE 34—There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard.
AGING TEST L—WET HEAT AGING 141. Apparatus
134. Scope 141.1 Use the standard IFD apparatus, as described in 17.1.
134.1 This test consists of exposing foam specimens in an 142. Test Specimen
environmental chamber and observing the effects on the
142.1 Use the standard IFD specimen, as described in 18.1.
properties of the foam.
One specimen shall be tested, unless otherwise agreed upon by
NOTE 32—There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard. the purchaser and the supplier.
135. Apparatus 143. Procedure
135.1 Environmental Chamber, capable of maintaining 50 143.1 Place the test specimen on the perforated supporting
6 2 °C and 95 6 5 % RH for exposing the specimens. A device plate. Bring the indenter foot into contact with the specimen at

17
 D3574 − 17
a rate of 50 6 5 mm/min, while applying a contact force of 4.5 149.1.1 Preflex specimen as described in 20.2. Allow the
6 0.5 N to determine the specimen’s initial thickness. Imme- specimen to rest for 6 6 1 min after the final preflex.
diately indent the specimen 75 % of its initial thickness at a 149.1.2 Bring the indenter foot into contact with the speci-
rate of 1000 6 100 mm/min. After a 60 6 3 s dwell time, men at a rate of 50 6 5 mm/min, while applying a contact force
return the indenter to a 5 % deflection at 1000 6 100 mm/min, of 4.5 6 0.5 N to determine the specimen’s initial thickness.
starting a stopwatch immediately upon initiating the upward Immediately indent the specimen 75 % of its initial thickness at
movement of the indenter. Stop the watch as soon as the foam a rate of 50 6 5 mm/min.
recovers to a 4.5 6 0.5 N preload on the indenter. If there is no 149.1.3 Immediately remove the compression force at 50 6
separation between the foam and the indenter foot during the 5 mm/min until the platen fully returns. Calculate the hyster-
upward movement of the indenter foot, the recovery time is esis loss as defined in 146.1.
indeterminate by this method. 149.2 Procedure B—Hysteresis Loss—CFD:
144. Report 149.2.1 Preflex sample as described in 34.1. Allow the
specimen to rest for 6 6 1 min after the final preflex.
144.1 Report the recovery time in seconds. 149.2.2 Bring the compression foot into contact with the
145. Precision and Bias specimen at a rate of 50 6 5 mm/min and determine the
thickness after applying a contact load of 140 6 14 Pa to the
145.1 See Section 151 for Precision and Bias statements.
specimen area (see Note 2). Immediately compress the speci-
men 75 % of its initial thickness at a rate of 50 6 5 mm/min.
TEST N—HYSTERESIS LOSS 149.2.3 Immediately remove the compression force at 50 6
5 mm/min until the platen fully returns. Calculate the hyster-
146. Scope esis loss as defined in 146.1.
146.1 Hysteresis Loss, for the purpose of this method for NOTE 35—Different wait times, test speeds, and deflections may be
cellular foam products, is defined as the difference between the agreed upon by the purchaser and the supplier.
loading energy and the unloading energy, expressed as a NOTE 36—It is extremely important that the Universal Testing Ma-
percentage of the loading energy. This measures the loss of chine’s (UTM) crosshead reverses direction with minimal hesitation at the
ability of flexible foam to return to its original support maximum compression point, otherwise false readings will be obtained.
characteristics after compression.
150. Report
Hysteresis Loss 5 @ Loading Energy 2 Unloading Energy#
150.1 Report hysteresis loss as a %.
3 100/ @ Loading Energy#
150.2 Report the foam as core or with skin.
where:
150.3 Report whether the IFD or CFD procedure was
146.1.1 Energy is defined as the area under the force/
followed.
deflection curve.
146.1.2 Loading Energy is the energy required to indent or 150.4 Report any variances to the procedure, such as those
compress a flexible specimen to a preset deflection (compres- listed in Note 35.
sion cycle).
146.1.3 Unloading Energy is the energy recovered when the 151. Precision and Bias
indentation or compression platen is retracted from the preset 151.1 Precision and bias for test methods in this standard
deflection and completely unloaded. (decompression cycle). are based on round robin studies conducted by the Polyure-
thane Foam Association from 1998 to 2006 in accordance with
147. Apparatus
Practice E691. The Test B2, I1, and I2 data were generated by
147.1 Use the standard IFD apparatus, as described in 17.1 the molded foam industry between 2004 and 2007. Test I5 data
for Procedure A—Hysteresis Loss—IFD. was generated in 2010. For each study, three or more materials
147.2 Use the standard CFD apparatus as described in 31.1 were carefully selected to cover the range of properties
for Procedure B—Hysteresis Loss—CFD. expected in commercially available products. The number of
labs varied from 6 to 10. The samples were distributed by one
148. Test Specimen lab, but individual specimens were prepared at the labs
148.1 For Procedure A—Hysteresis Loss—IFD, use the performing the tests. Each laboratory obtained six test results
standard IFD specimen, as described in 18.1. One specimen for each material. Precision, characterized by repeatability (Sr
shall be tested, unless otherwise agreed upon by the purchaser and r) and reproducibility (SR and R) have been determined as
and the supplier. shown in the individual tables.
148.2 For Procedure B—Hysteresis Loss—CFD, use the 151.2 Bias—There are no recognized standards by which to
standard CFD specimen, as described in 32.1–32.3. One estimate bias for these test methods. (Warning—The explana-
specimen shall be tested, unless otherwise agreed upon by the tion of r and R are only intended to present a meaningful way
purchaser and the supplier. of considering the approximate precision of these test methods.
The data in the tables shall not be applied to acceptance or
149. Procedure rejection of materials, as these data apply only to the materials
149.1 Procedure A—Hysteresis Loss—IFD: tested in the round robins and are unlikely to be rigorously

18
 D3574 − 17

FIG. 7 Hysteresis Loss

representative of other lots, formulations, conditions, materials, TABLE 4 IFD Test B1, 25 % IFD, N
or laboratories. Users of these test methods shall apply the (8 Laboratories)
principles outlined in Practice E691 to generate data specific to Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
1 73.48 0.93 2.09 2.62 5.85
their materials and laboratory.) 2 136.35 1.10 4.31 3.07 12.06
3 249.11 3.16 8.73 8.85 24.44
NOTE 37—The precision data presented in the tables were obtained
A
using the test conditions defined in the test methods. If a material Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
specification defines other test conditions, these precision data shall be by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
the participating laboratories.
assumed to not apply. B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
TABLE 2 Density Test A, kg/m3 R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.

(8 Laboratories)
Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
1 27.21 0.23 0.31 0.64 0.88 TABLE 5 IFD Test B1, 65 % IFD, N
2 43.44 0.28 0.34 0.78 0.94
(8 Laboratories)
3 35.07 0.51 0.61 1.43 1.70
Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained 1 147.91 2.99 5.68 8.37 15.92
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of 2 253.33 2.34 8.49 6.56 23.77
the participating laboratories. 3 491.16 7.18 20.64 20.16 57.81
B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation. A
C Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.
the participating laboratories.
B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
TABLE 3 IFD Test B1, Thickness, mm R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.

(8 Laboratories)
Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
1 104.1 0.20 0.31 0.53 1.50
2 102.3 0.28 0.34 0.53 1.52
3 99.1 0.45 0.61 0.74 2.08
A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
the participating laboratories.
B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.

152. Keywords
152.1 bonded; flexible cellular; molded; slab; urethane

19
 D3574 − 17
TABLE 6 IFD Test B1, 25 % RT IFD, N TABLE 10 CFD Test C, 50 % CFD, kPa
(8 Laboratories) (9 Laboratories)
Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
1 58.23 0.83 1.26 2.33 3.54 1 2.06 0.05 0.29 0.14 0.81
2 99.83 0.94 2.14 2.64 5.99 2 3.04 0.07 0.58 0.18 1.62
3 145.14 2.53 2.53 4.62 11.12 3 9.36 0.14 0.38 0.40 1.07
A A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
the participating laboratories. the participating laboratories.
B B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation. SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
C C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr. r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR. R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.

TABLE 7 IRGL Test B2, 4.5 N Height, mm TABLE 11 Compression Set Test D, 90 % Ct, %
(8 Laboratories) (9 Laboratories)
Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
1 99.84 0.38 0.73 1.06 2.04 1 3.36 0.62 0.83 1.73 2.34
2 100.69 1.04 1.04 2.91 2.91 2 5.78 0.82 0.97 2.30 2.71
3 101.51 0.90 1.00 2.51 2.79 3 8.23 0.83 1.61 2.34 4.51
4 100.59 0.61 1.06 1.71 2.97 A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of the participating laboratories.
B
the participating laboratories. SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
B C
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation. r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
C D
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr. R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.

TABLE 12 Compression Set Test D, 90 % Cd, %

TABLE 8 IRGL Test B2, 110 N Height, mm
(9 Laboratories)
(8 Laboratories) Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
Material Avg. SrA SRB r C
RD
1 3.72 0.68 0.92 1.91 2.58
1 87.05 2.25 5.03 6.31 14.07 2 6.45 0.79 1.11 2.22 3.11
2 99.07 1.00 1.00 2.79 2.79 3 9.07 0.92 1.78 2.59 5.00
3 99.79 0.88 1.01 2.47 2.83 A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
4 99.49 0.63 1.06 1.76 2.96
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained the participating laboratories.
B
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
C
the participating laboratories. r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
B D
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation. R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.

TABLE 13 Tensile Test E, D3574 Die, kPa

(10 Laboratories)
TABLE 9 IRGL Test B2, 220 N Height, mm
Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
(8 Laboratories) 1 45.84 1.54 2.82 4.33 7.90
Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD 2 74.96 3.02 4.56 8.47 12.78
1 41.06 2.82 5.20 7.88 14.55 3 91.62 4.02 5.11 11.24 14.32
2 93.76 0.98 3.54 2.74 9.92 A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
3 98.37 0.92 1.26 2.57 3.53
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
4 98.66 0.58 1.06 1.62 2.98
the participating laboratories.
A B
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
C
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
the participating laboratories. R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.
B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.

20
 D3574 − 17
TABLE 14 Tensile Test E, D412A Die, kPa TABLE 18 Tear Test F, N/m
(10 Laboratories) (6 Laboratories)
Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
1 46.06 2.67 4.00 7.48 11.19 1 599.4 41.6 52.1 116.5 145.8
2 78.20 3.88 4.81 10.85 13.47 2 244.0 18.0 35.3 50.4 98.9
3 89.99 3.26 3.42 9.12 9.56 3 215.2 17.6 28.3 49.2 79.1
A A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
the participating laboratories. the participating laboratories.
B B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation. SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
C C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr. r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR. R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.

TABLE 15 Tensile Test E, Elongation by Crosshead Travel, D412A TABLE 19 Air Flow Test G, m3/min
Die, % (7 Laboratories)
(10 Laboratories) Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD 1 0.056 0.002 0.006 0.006 0.017
1 218.4 16.2 24.2 45.5 67.6 2 0.109 0.004 0.013 0.011 0.038
2 231.8 15.4 24.9 43.0 69.6 3 0.160 0.009 0.024 0.027 0.068
3 154.5 14.1 27.5 39.4 77.1 A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of the participating laboratories.
B
the participating laboratories. SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
C
B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation. r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr. R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.

TABLE 20 Resilience Test H, %

TABLE 16 Tensile Test E, Elongation by Crosshead Travel, D3574 (8 Laboratories)
Die, % Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
(10 Laboratories) 1 46.1 0.82 2.86 2.31 8.00
Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD 2 70.8 1.00 3.15 2.79 8.82
1 205.3 13.2 23.6 36.9 66.0 3 69.2 0.99 2.89 2.76 8.09
2 219.2 15.2 24.0 42.6 67.2 A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
3 146.4 14.2 26.3 39.7 73.6 by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained the participating laboratories.
B
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
C
the participating laboratories. r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation. R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.
TABLE 21 Static Fatigue Test I1, Thickness Loss, %
(6 Laboratories)
TABLE 17 Tensile Test E, Elongation by Bench Marking, D3574 Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
Die, % 1 1.19 0.31 0.43 0.88 1.20
(10 Laboratories) 2 2.69 0.31 0.75 0.87 2.11
Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD 3 1.74 0.45 0.79 1.25 2.21
1 217.9 12.1 30.2 33.9 84.5 4 1.48 0.23 0.32 0.67 0.89
2 236.6 14.6 30.3 40.7 84.9 A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
3 158.9 16.9 31.9 47.3 89.2 by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained the participating laboratories.
B
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
C
the participating laboratories. r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation. R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.

21
 D3574 − 17
TABLE 22 Static Fatigue Test I1, 25 % IFD Loss, % TABLE 26 Roller Shear Fatigue Test I2, 1 h, 110 N Thickness
(6 Laboratories) Loss, % (20 Kcycles)
Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD (6 Laboratories)
1 19.82 3.15 3.39 8.82 9.50 Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
2 25.29 1.39 2.80 3.88 7.83 1 46.97 3.51 9.33 9.84 26.11
3 21.43 0.79 1.95 2.21 5.46 2 4.29 0.78 2.89 2.18 8.10
4 22.18 0.79 1.24 2.22 3.48 3 40.47 5.98 10.83 16.75 30.32
A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained 4 3.50 1.28 2.01 3.59 5.64
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
the participating laboratories. by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation. the participating laboratories.
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr. B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR. C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.

TABLE 23 Static Fatigue Test I1, 65 % IFD Loss, %

(6 Laboratories) TABLE 27 Roller Shear Fatigue Test I2, 24 h, 110 N Thickness
Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD Loss, % (20 Kcycles)
1 20.26 2.22 4.02 6.21 11.24 (6 Laboratories)
2 21.52 1.52 6.43 4.26 18.00 Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
3 21.43 0.83 3.57 2.33 9.99 1 46.05 3.96 8.86 11.08 24.81
4 20.23 0.76 5.83 2.11 16.31 2 2.22 1.07 1.53 3.00 4.28
A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained 3 32.84 5.91 12.76 16.54 35.73
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of 4 2.71 0.81 1.77 2.27 4.96
the participating laboratories. A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation. by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr. the participating laboratories.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR. B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.
TABLE 24 Roller Shear Fatigue Test I2, 1 h, 4.5 N Thickness
Loss, % (20 Kcycles)
(6 Laboratories) TABLE 28 Roller Shear Fatigue Test I2, 1 h, 220 N Thickness
Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD Loss, % (20 Kcycles)
1 4.76 0.59 3.59 1.63 10.06 (6 Laboratories)
2 1.12 1.28 1.56 3.59 4.36 Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
3 1.91 0.18 1.54 0.51 4.33 1 29.87 1.78 8.60 4.99 24.07
4 0.57 0.41 0.46 1.14 1.27 2 21.02 1.97 8.43 5.51 23.61
A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained 3 38.38 2.21 6.61 6.18 18.51
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of 4 32.96 4.68 14.74 13.10 41.27
the participating laboratories. A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation. by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr. the participating laboratories.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR. B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.
TABLE 25 Roller Shear Fatigue Test I2, 24 h, 4.5 N Thickness
Loss, % (20 Kcycles)
(6 Laboratories) TABLE 29 Roller Shear Fatigue Test I2, 24 h, 220 N Thickness
Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD Loss, % (20 Kcycles)
1 4.61 1.55 3.91 4.33 10.94 (6 Laboratories)
2 0.91 0.94 1.25 2.64 3.48 Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
3 1.45 0.43 1.50 1.21 4.21 1 30.29 9.06 10.06 25.36 28.17
4 0.45 0.22 0.36 0.61 1.02 2 18.31 1.68 6.62 4.70 18.54
A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained 3 36.07 3.48 8.29 9.73 23.21
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of 4 29.95 4.50 13.47 12.59 37.70
the participating laboratories. A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation. by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr. the participating laboratories.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR. B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.

22
 D3574 − 17
TABLE 30 Pounding Fatigue Test I3 1 h Thickness Loss, % (80 TABLE 34 Constant Deflection Pounding Test I5 1 h Thickness
Kcycles) Loss, % (80 Kcycles)
(7 Laboratories) (4 Laboratories)
Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
1 1.69 0.76 0.87 2.14 2.43 1 4.33 1.02 1.04 2.84 2.91
2 1.46 0.39 0.42 1.08 1.17 2 3.66 0.20 0.59 0.57 1.64
3 2.50 0.24 0.61 0.68 1.70 3 5.94 0.77 0.82 2.15 2.29
A 4 3.74 0.23 0.73 0.64 2.03
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
A
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
the participating laboratories. by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation. the participating laboratories.
C B
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr. SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
D C
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR. r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.

TABLE 31 Pounding Fatigue Test I3 24 h Thickness Loss, % (80

Kcycles) TABLE 35 Constant Deflection Pounding Test I5 24 h Thickness
Loss, % (80 Kcycles)
(7 Laboratories)
Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD (4 Laboratories)
1 1.47 0.70 0.97 1.96 2.70 Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
2 1.11 0.32 0.39 0.89 1.10 1 2.72 0.50 0.51 1.39 1.43
3 1.81 0.24 0.52 0.68 1.47 2 2.15 0.12 0.43 0.32 1.20
A 3 3.30 0.29 0.75 0.81 2.11
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
4 2.47 0.18 0.73 0.51 2.04
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
A
the participating laboratories. Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation. by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr. the participating laboratories.
D B
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR. SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.

TABLE 32 Pounding Fatigue Test I3 1 h 40 % IFD Loss, % (80

Kcycles)
TABLE 36 Constant Deflection Pounding Test I5 1 h 25 % IFD
(7 Laboratories)
Loss, % (80 Kcycles)
Material Avg. SrA SRB
rC
RD

1 29.9 1.34 2.93 3.75 8.22 (4 Laboratories)

2 20.6 2.11 2.49 5.92 6.96 Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
3 34.1 1.56 2.86 4.36 8.01 1 44.2 3.5 6.3 9.9 17.5
A 2 44.0 1.1 4.0 3.2 11.2
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
3 53.1 2.4 4.3 6.8 12.1
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
4 47.8 0.6 1.8 1.8 4.9
the participating laboratories.
B A
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation. Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr. by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR. the participating laboratories.
B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.
TABLE 33 Pounding Fatigue Test I3 24 h 40 % IFD Loss, %(80
Kcycles)
(7 Laboratories) TABLE 37 Constant Deflection Pounding Test I5 24 h 25 % IFD
Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
Loss, % (80 Kcycles)
1 24.3 2.46 3.26 6.88 9.14
2 17.2 2.09 2.53 5.86 7.09 (4 Laboratories)
3 27.0 1.95 3.56 5.46 9.96 Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
A 1 34.4 1.5 3.6 4.3 10.1
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
2 34.1 1.6 3.1 4.4 8.7
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
3 39.6 1.5 4.9 4.2 4.2
the participating laboratories.
B 4 40.0 0.9 0.9 2.5 2.5
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
C A
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr. Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR. by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
the participating laboratories.
B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.

23
 D3574 − 17
TABLE 38 Recovery Time Test M, s
(6 Laboratories)
Material Avg. SrA SRB rC RD
1 30 6 22 16 61
2 17 4 5 10 14
3 32 24 31 66 88
4 9 2 3 4 8
5 65 31 56 86 159
6 12 2 3 7 8
A
Sr = within-laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained
by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all of
the participating laboratories.
B
SR = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation.
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two results = 2.8 × Sr.
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two results = 2.8 × SR.

APPENDIXES

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. SUGGESTED METHOD FOR SPECIFYING FLEXIBLE URETHANE FOAMS

X1.1 For simplification in specifying foams, a line call out the sections of this test method. The call out format shall be as
system can be used. The line call out could be used on follows:
engineering drawings for parts. The properties correspond to

ASTM D3574 Type [Slab, Molded, Bonded or other, as specified]

Coring [Cored or Uncored]
Urethane Chemistry [Polyether, Polyester, HR, Conventional]
A Density [kg ⁄m3] maximum, minimum or range
B1 IFD [N] [for 25 % and 65 % deflections, 100 mm thick sample] max, min, or range
B2 IRGL [mm] [at 4.5, 110 and 220 N, 100 mm thick sample] max, min, or range
C CFD [kPa] [50 % deflection] max, min, or range
D Compression set [%] [method—Cd or Ct] max
E Tensile [kPa] min
F Tear [N ⁄m] min
G Air Flow [cfm] min
H Ball Rebound [%] min
I1 Static Fatigue [percent thickness loss and 25 % and 65 % IFD loss] max
I2 Roller Shear [percent loss of thickness and IRGL values] max
I3 Constant Force Pounding [percent change in thickness and percent change in 40 % IFD] max
I4 Dynamic Fatigue Test for Carpet Cushion [percent loss of thickness and percent retention of 65 % IFD value] maximum value and minimum value, respectively
I5 Constant Deflection Pounding [percent change in thickness and percent change in 25 % IFD] max
J1 Steam Autoclave [physical properties to be tested as (tests A through I or M as specified, units as above] maximum or minimum values based on test specified
J2 Steam Autoclave [physical properties to be tested as (tests A through I or M as specified, units as above] maximum or minimum values based on test specified
K Dry Heat Aging [physical properties to be tested as (tests A through I or M as specified, units as above] maximum or minimum values based on test specified
L Wet Heat Aging [physical properties to be tested as (tests A through I or M as specified, units as above] maximum or minimum values based on test specified
M Recovery Time [seconds] max, min, or range
N Hysteresis Loss [%] [for 75 % deflection] max, min, or range
X Other tests as specified (Individual tests listed with subscripts)

X1.2 Example:

D3574 Type [Slab]

Coring [Uncored]
Urethane Chemistry [Polyether]
A Density [15.5 kg/m3] min
B1 IFD [13 mm thick specimen 80-140 N ] range
C CFD [3.0-4.0 kPa at 50 % deflection] range
D Compression Set [10 % Ct] maximum
E Tensile [80 kPa] min
F Tear [0.25 kN/m] min
J1 Steam Autoclave [15 % change in CFD] max
K Dry Heat Aging [15 % change in CFD] max
X1 Flammability—MVSS 302 [102 mm/min] max
X2 Odor—SAE J 1351 [3] max
X3 Stain Resistance—ASTM D925 Test A [no staining]
X4 Low Temperature Flexibility—DCX MSAY 349 [no rupturing]
X5 No auxiliary blowing agents shall be used to manufacture product

24
 D3574 − 17

X2. SUGGESTED METHOD OF CONSTRUCTION FOR A ROLLER SHEAR

DYNAMIC FLEX FATIGUE APPARATUS

X2.1 The following requirements are established to define a point directly above or below the roller axis when both roller
the equipment and relationship of parts for a constant-load and pivot axes are in the same horizontal plane (X2.3.4).
roller shear machine. See Fig. X2.1 and Fig. X2.2 for reference Additional weights to be added as shown.
to part numbers. X2.3.7 Vertical Adjustment, 7—If the roller is not driven to
X2.2 Roller, 1: provide stroke movement, provision shall be made so that
attachment of the pivot axis to the support can be raised or
X2.2.1 Dimensions—457-mm minimum length, and 76.20 lowered at least 75 mm [3 in.]. This adjustment must be able to
6 1.27-mm diameter. be made in not less than 12.5-mm increments.
X2.2.2 Material—Corrosion and wear-resistant metal, ei-
X2.4 Specimen Mounting Base, 8:
ther (1) chrome-plated material, or (2) stainless steel.
X2.4.1 Dimensions—500-mm minimum length. 500-mm
X2.2.3 Surface Finish—Finish surface on roller is to be
minimum width, and 9.5-mm minimum thickness.
ground and equivalent to at least 0.001 mm.
X2.4.2 Material—Structural-grade carbon steel.
X2.2.4 The mass of the roller shall not exceed 11.340 kg.
X2.4.3 Perforation—6-mm diameter holes on 20-mm
X2.3 Roller Mounting Bracket Assembly 2, 3, 4, 11—The centers, over a minimum area covering 350 mm in length by
assembly consists of metal members designed to attach the 350 mm in width.
roller to a pivot point, to provide bearing surfaces for minimum X2.4.4 Surface Finish—Top surface shall be a finish grind.
friction for turning, and to serve as a platform to add required
mass to the roller. X2.4.5 Hold-Down Plates, 9—Provision to attach metal or
wood hold-down plates for clamping cotton sheeting retaining
X2.3.1 Bearings , 2 and 4—The proper bearings are re- strips to base. Four plates are required to cover perimeter of
quired on each end or roller axis (A-A) and also on the pivot specimen size.
axis (B-B). The bearing should be equivalent to the following
example: X2.4.6 Vertical Adjustment and Level, 10—If mounting base
Bearing No. 4—Nice No. 1635, DC Ball Bearing 19 by 32 by is not driven to provide stroke movement, provision shall be
13 mm. made for vertical adjustment of at least 75 mm. This adjust-
Bearing No. 2—Nice No. 6906, flange mounted radial bearing. ment must be able to provide vertical movement in not less
than 12.5-mm increments and maintain a horizontal level
NOTE X2.1—Roller axis bearings can be mounted in the bracket with condition of the mounting base.
the axle attached to the roller or, if the roller is a hollow cylinder, the
bearing can be press fitted into the cylinder end with the bracket furnishing X2.5 Mechanical Requirements:
the axle.
X2.5.1 Stroke Length—The length of stroke shall be 330 6
X2.3.2 Pivot Arm , 11—The distance between the pivot axis 12 mm.
and the roller axis shall be 203.20 6 6.35 mm.
X2.5.2 Stroke Speed, Stroke Drive—The rate of stroke speed
X2.3.3 Roller Bracket Connector, 3, connects the right and shall produce 0.47 6 0.03 Hz. A cycle is a complete forward
left bearing brackets across the top of the roller. The connection and reverse stroke. Either the roller or the mounting base shall
must also provide a flat horizontal surface with means (pin) to be driven to produce stroke travel. In either case, the drive
attach the weights. The weights must be centered directly mechanism must produce travel in a horizontal plane.
above the axis of the roller.
X2.5.3 Angular Offset—The axis of the roller shall be level
X2.3.4 Axis Relationship—The roller axis (A-A) and pivot and mounted at a 15 6 3° offset from perpendicular to the
axis (B-B) must be parallel and lie in the same horizontal plane direction of the stroke.
parallel to the specimen mounting base.
X2.5.4 Mounting Base Location—The length of the mount-
X2.3.5 Alignment and Clearance—Brackets and axles must ing base shall be parallel to the direction of the stroke and
be aligned so that no binding occurs to obstruct free turning on centered under the midpoint of the stroke and the center of the
either axis. Brackets and other support members (5) must give roller. The distance of the base surface from the roller axis
free clearance so that specimen is not touched during test other (X2.3.4) shall be 45 mm when vertical adjustment provides a
than by roller surface. minimum clearance.
X2.3.6 Weight, 6—The total vertical force exerted by the X2.5.5 Cycle Counter—Means to record the number of
assembly plus the roller shall not exceed 111 N as measured at cycles shall be provided.

25
 D3574 − 17

FIG. X2.1 Roller Shear Machine—Top View

FIG. X2.2 Roller Shear Machine—Side View

26
 D3574 − 17

X3. DEFINITIONS OF TERMS USED TO DESCRIBE THE FORCE-DEFLECTION CURVE

OF FLEXIBLE URETHANE FOAM

X3.1 support factor—the ratio of the 65 % indentation force X3.5 indentation modulus—the force required to produce
deflection to the 25 % indentation force deflection determined an indentation of an additional 1 % between the limits of 20 %
after 1 min of rest. Most specifications are based on the 25 % indentation force deflection and 40 % indentation force
IFD value of a 100-mm foam. The support factor thus indicates deflection, determined without the 1-min rest. The slope of this
what 65 % IFD value would be acceptable for a particular line depends upon the resistance of the cells struts to post
application. The 65 % IFD measures the support region of the buckling (Note X3.1).
stress-strain curve. Seating foams with low support factors will
Indentation modulus ~ IM! 5 ~ 40 % IFD 2 20 % IFD/20 % IFD!
usually bottom out and give inferior performance.
(X3.4)
Support factor ~ SF! 5 ~ 65 % IFD/25 % IFD! (X3.1)
X3.6 modulus irregularity factor—the intercept produced
Synonyms—Sag factor, hardness ratio, comfort factor.
on the stress axis by extrapolation of the linear portion of the
These terms are recommended to be removed from the
stress-strain curve. The indentation modulus, that is, the slope
vocabulary. Support factor is the term of choice.
of the line, can be substantially constant up to and beyond the
X3.2 guide factor—the ratio of the 25 % indentation force 40 % indentation level. In this event, the indentation stress-
deflection to the density after a 1-min rest. Most specifications strain curve is linear and passes through the origin Fig. X3.1.
do not have a density requirement; therefore the product with The indentation modulus usually varies at low levels of strain
the highest guide factor has the cost advantage but not before reaching a constant value at above approximately 10 per
necessarily the performance advantage. strain. The stress-strain curve can exhibit a marked step in that
region, which can result in some discomfort in seating
Guide factor ~ GF! 5 ~ 25 % IFD/density! (X3.2)
applications, Fig. X3.2 and Fig. X3.3. The MIF value is
X3.3 initial hardness factor—the ratio of the 25 % inden- calculated from the same data necessary to derive the modulus
tation force deflection force to the 5 % indentation force of the foam as a seating material (Note X3.1).
deflection determined without the 1-min rest. The initial Modulus irregularity factor ~ MIF! 5 2 3 20 % IFD 2 40 % IFD
hardness ratio defines the surface feel of a flexible urethane (X3.5)
foam. Supple or soft surface foam will have a high value, while
boardy or stiff surface foams will have a low value (Note X3.7 IFD Hysteresis Loss—historically, a simple method
X3.1). for measuring the hysteresis loss was to calculate the percent-
Initial hardness factor ~ IHF! 5 ~ 25 % IFD/5 % IFD! (X3.3) age difference between the 25 % IFD and the 25 % IFD
attained during decompression after the 65 % IFD is measured
Synonym— Comfort factor. (25 % IFD RT). The current and more definitive method for
NOTE X3.1—Standard IFD curves can be used to generate the IHF, IM, measuring hysteresis loss is defined in 146, which measures the
and MIF data. difference in area under the curves during loading and
unloading, representing the energy loss.
X3.4 hardness index—the term used in some specifications
for the 50 % IFD value. The chair designer will often design IFD Hysteresis Loss 5 100 3 @ ~ 25 % IFD 2 25 % IFD RT! /25 % IFD#
furniture for a maximum 50 % indentation. Bar stools, on the (X3.6)
other hand, are often designed for only a 20 % deflection.

FIG. X3.1 Indentation Stress-Strain Curve (MIF is Zero)

27
 D3574 − 17

FIG. X3.2 Indentation Stress-Strain Curve (MIF is positive)

X4. SUGGESTED TESTS FOR DETERMINING COMBUSTIBILITY OF FLEXIBLE URETHANE FOAM

FIG. X3.3 Indentation Stress-Strain Curve (MIF is negative)

X4.1 This appendix lists for informational purposes only the Aviation FAA Oil Burner Test
test methods commonly used for determining the combustion Carpet cushion ASTM E84
Carpet cushion DOC FFI-70 (Pill Test)
properties of flexible urethane foams. These tests have been Miscellaneous ASTM D3675
found useful in ascertaining the effectiveness of additives and
reactants to modify the combustion characteristics of these A
Composite test. Foam, fabric, and other components can have a synergistic
materials. See 1.3. effect on each other.

X4.2 Some Applicable Codes and Regulations for Specified Various governmental bodies have issued regulations based
Applications: on Test Methods E162 and E662. The regulations are not the
same for all bodies issuing them. Hence, the regulation of the
Application Regulation
Automotive DOT MVSS 302 government having jurisdiction shall be consulted.
Mattress and cushion DOC FF 4-72 These standards are used to measure and describe the
Mattress and cushion CAL TB 117
Mattress and cushion CAL TB 133A
response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and flame
Mattress and cushion CAL AB 603A under controlled conditions, but do not by themselves incor-
Mattress and cushion NFPA 260A porate all factors required for fire hazard or fire risk assessment
Mattress and cushion NFPA 261A
Mattress and cushion BSI 5852A
of the materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire
Mattress and cushion 16CFR Part 1633A conditions.
Aviation FAA Part 25.853 Par (b) App F X4.2.1 Sources:

28
 D3574 − 17

Government Documents Superintendent of Documents, US Gov-

ernment Printing Office, Washington,
DC 20402
California California Bureau of Home Furnishings,
3485 Orange Grove Ave., North High-
lands, CA 95660
National Fire Protection Association 1 Batterymarch Park, P.O. Box 9101,
Quincy, MA 02269
British Standard British Standards Institute, 2 Park Street,
London, England W1A 2B5

X5. SUGGESTED METHOD FOR THE VERIFICATION OF AN INCLINED OIL MANOMETER

X5.1 Adjust the feet to level the manometer. With a height X5.2 Change in pressure is calculated by:
gauge resting on a level and flat surface, measure the distance
Pm 2 Pn 5 wy ~ sin θ1a/A ! (X5.2)
to the top of the glass tube at each major mark. Determine the
area of the tube by direct measurement. The area of the where:
reservoir is calculated by adding a measured amount of fluid Pm = the low reading,
with both ends of the manometer at atmospheric pressure. The Pn = the high reading,
calculation for the area of the reservoir (A): w = the specific gravity of the indicating fluid,
y = the distance between readings,
A 5 ~ v 2 ay! /h (X5.1)
θ = the angle of the tube to normal,
where: a = the area of the inside of the tube, and
v = the volume added, A = the area of the reservoir.
a = the area of the inside of the tube,
y = the distance between readings, and X5.3 The error is the difference between the calculated and
h = the change in height. the indicated value.

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee D20 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (D3574 - 16)
that may impact the use of this standard. (March 1, 2017)

(1) Revised 38.1.

Committee D20 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (D3574 - 11)
that may impact the use of this standard. (November 1, 2016)

(1) General Test Conditions, Section 6, for both conditioning (6) Fixed indenter specified in 31.1 (Compression Force De-
and testing, made standard for all test methods. flection) and 96.2 (Dynamic Fatigue Test by Constant Force
(2) Tolerance and Dimension changes: Pounding).
(7) Test I3 (Dynamic Fatigue Test by Constant Force Pound-
(a) Relative humidity tolerance changed to 610 %.
ing): removed 96.4 sentence (The indenter shall be free to be
(b) Test A—Density: Replaced 1000 mm3 minimum sample
lifted in its mounting to prevent overloading of the test
size to 10,000 mm3 (~0.61 in.3).
specimen.) and replaced with expanded verbiage in 96.2,
(c) Test H—Resilience (Ball Rebound) Test: which explains the former 96.4 and aligns with equivalent
i) 69.1: Diameter of steel ball changed to 16.0 6 0.2 mm. standard ISO 3385. 96.2; expanded verbiage italicized:
ii) 69.1: Weight of steel ball added (16.3 6 0.2 g). A flat circular fixed indenter that exerts a force of 750 6 20 N
(d) Preloads: added tolerance of 610 % to all preloads. on the test specimen at maximum indentation. The indenter
(3) Removed permissive language / minor additions / editorial shall have an overall diameter of 250 6 1 mm with a 25 6 1
changes mm radius at the lower edge, to prevent cutting hard foam. The
(4) Added more definitive description/content to test methods indenter mechanism is usually comprised of either A) a
D (Constant Deflection Compression Set Test), E (Tensile weighted system, or B) a system using a platen and force
Test), and F (Tear Resistance Test). measuring device (for example, load cell) to ensure the
(5) Added Test N—Hysteresis Loss: moved from appendix to specified constant force. If a weighted system is used, the
test method. indenter shall be fashioned to be completely supported by only

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 D3574 − 17
the specimen at the end of its stroke (that is, at the end of its
stroke, zero force exerted by the machine, all force due to the
machine-unsupported indenter weight only), in order to pre-
vent overloading of the specimen. Specimen softening will
necessitate stroke distance adjustments, in order to maintain
constant force.

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