ASTM D1414 specifies the procedures for determining the physical properties of O-rings. Our Universal Testing Systems can be used to perform the tension test and tension set test described in the standard.
The standard specifies a special set of grips consisting of a set of spools to hold the O-rings. Our 2717 Series Elastomeric "O" Ring Test Fixtures were designed to accurately meet the requirements and conveniently avoid the need for lubricants or external power motors. Designed for testing elastomeric materials in the form of rings, these fixtures avoid local stress concentrations by using a lower spindle that is rotated by a toothed belt driven from the moving crosshead. The upper spindle rotates freely and the rotation frequency of the lower spindle is easily selected by moving the toothed belt from one pulley to another.
When testing straight specimens or single strands, pneumatic side-acting grips with serrated or rubber coated faces are the preferred gripping configuration. The constant gripping force prevents specimen slippage when specimens are elongated. We have found that other self-tightening style grips, such as roller grips, are proven to be adequate for elastomeric materials.