ASTM D5458

Standard Test Method for Peel Cling of Stretch Wrap Film

Cling is of critical importance in maintaining a tight wrap after a load is stretch wrapped. This test method measures cling between two layers of film, in both a stretched and unstretched condition.

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ASTM D5458 specifies the method for determining the cling properties of stretch wrap films. Cling force, in this context, refers to the force required to separate two layers of film that have been brought into contact under controlled conditions. This property is essential for maintaining the integrity of wrapped loads during storage and transportation, preventing the need for additional adhesives or securing mechanisms.

Scope and Purpose of ASTM D5458

The standard is widely recognized and used in industries that depend on the reliable performance of stretch films, particularly in packaging and logistics. By establishing a uniform testing method, ASTM D5458 ensures consistent evaluation of film cling properties, enabling manufacturers to meet quality standards and optimize their products for end-use applications.

Industries Where It’s Applied

ASTM D5458 is vital in sectors where stretch films play a critical role, including:

Packaging and Logistics: Ensuring secure wrapping of goods on pallets.
Food and Beverage Industry: Wrapping perishable items to prevent spoilage.
Pharmaceuticals: Protecting sensitive products during transit.
Materials Research and Development: Testing and improving film formulations.

Cling testing measures a crucial property that defines how effectively a stretch wrap film adheres to itself when applied. A higher cling force ensures that the film remains tightly wrapped around the load, providing stability and minimizing the risk of damage during handling, storage, or transit.

Films with consistent and appropriate cling properties are particularly valuable in reducing material waste, as they do not require additional layers for secure wrapping. This contributes to cost savings and supports sustainability goals in industries focusing on environmentally friendly packaging solutions.

Compliance with ASTM D5458 provides multiple advantages, including:

Product Quality Assurance: Demonstrates that the film meets industry standards for cling performance.
Customer Confidence: Builds trust by ensuring that the product performs as expected.
Operational Efficiency: Reduces the likelihood of load instability or product damage.
Market Competitiveness: Enables manufacturers to benchmark their products against industry norms.

Test Preparation

ASTM D5458 measures cling between two layers of film, in both a stretched and unstretched condition.

This test method is a peel cling procedure. A one inch (25 mm) wide film strip is adhered to a flat film attached to an inclined surface. The force required to remove the film strip from the flat film is measured.

A universal testing machine with a constant rate of grip separation equipped, with fixtures and incline surfaces required.

The standard outlines a clear and precise methodology for testing cling properties:

Sample Preparation: Cut the stretch wrap film into the prescribed dimensions, typically 200 mm x 200 mm, ensuring clean edges.
Layer Alignment: Place one layer of film over another under controlled tension, simulating real-world wrapping conditions.
Force Application: Apply a consistent peeling force to separate the two layers using a calibrated cling tester.
Data Recording: Measure and document the force required to separate the film layers.

The removable sample: Prepare a 1 in. (25.4mm) transverse direction (TD) by approximately 7 in. (180 mm) machine direction (MD) specimen from each paper/film/paper sandwich.

The sample fixed on incline: Prepare three 5 by 20 in. (125 by 508mm) TD by MD samples.

After samples are loaded in place, set the testing machine crosshead speed for 5 in. (125 mm) to peel away the samples and record the data.

Detailed Test Procedures

Place a 5 by 20 in. (127 by 508 mm) sample squarely on the incline face with its outside surface up. Tuck the film under the leading edge of the inclined bottom edge and clamp its one end. Then pull the unclamped corners back over the incline face to create a tight, smooth surface of film. A slight amount of stretching is acceptable.

Roll the free end of the film up on the rod to within 1 in. (25 mm) of the marks on the film. Elongate the sample, using the steel rod as the grip area, until the marks are aligned with the top edge of the incline. Move the rod down and through the clamps and clamp the film.

Take the corresponding 1 in. (25.4 mm) wide paper/ film/paper sandwich sample and slide the paper to expose about 0.5 in. (12.5 mm) of film.

With the “outside” surface up, place this exposed film section on the incline film sample and at the top of the incline. Align it so that the remainder of the sample, with paper still in place, will lie between the parallel guide lines that run the full face length of the incline.

Brush the exposed end down with moderate pressure. Grasp the opposite ends of the paper and gently pull the paper away from the film creating a smooth contact surface with the sample still properly aligned. Using the wide side of the brush and moderate pressure and speed, brush the length of the 1 in. (25 mm) sample with three strokes.

Roll the lower end of the 1 in. (25.4 mm) sample and insert it in the film clip.

Start the tester with crosshead speed for 5 in. (125 mm/min) to separate the samples.

The tester will automatically record the maximum cling peel force during the test and then returns the clip for another test.

Required Testing Equipment

SPC-01 Wrap Film Peel Cling Tester

SPC-01 is a specialized cling peel tester that is specially designed to conduct ASTM D5458 tests.

More About SPC-01

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