ASTM D4338-97(2016)

5.1 The mandrel bend test is simple and fast. It requires little investment in equipment and little operator training. The prime purpose is to determine whether a film of adhesive coated on a substrate meets flexibility requirements. The test is also useful for comparing flexibility of adhesives. It can be used to design adhesives by comparing the flexibility of various formulations to meet specific end-use parameters. The adhesive flexibility can be determined at temperatures other than ambient by conditioning the test apparatus and test specimen at the desired temperature and performing the test under those conditions.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the flexibility of an adhesive film bonded to a flexible substrate. The results are useful for comparing flexibility of adhesives and not for absolute characterization of adhesives.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are provided for information purposes only.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.