Test standards Alpine supports: ASTM D256, ISO 179-1, ISO 179-2, ISO 180
Impact testing evaluates a material’s ability to absorb energy during sudden, high-force loading, which is critical for understanding fracture behavior and resistance to failure. Two standard methods are used: Charpy and Izod. In both, a specimen is struck with a pendulum hammer, and the energy absorbed during fracture is measured by the change in the hammer’s swing height before and after impact.
These tests simulate real-world collision or impact scenarios and are especially important when materials are used in dynamic or high-risk environments. Properties such as impact strength, toughness, and fracture resistance are key indicators of how a material will perform under rapid or extreme stress.
Alpine performs both Charpy and Izod testing in accordance with international standards. We provide accurate, repeatable data to help customers assess the suitability of plastics, composites, and other materials for demanding applications. An example of a Charpy test can be seen below.
Alpine Expanded Capabilities
Test conditions we support:
- Custom specimen preparation
- Aging in acids, bases, brines, hydrocarbons, and extreme pressure
- Cryogenic to 400°C aging capabilities
Alpine offers impact testing to evaluate the toughness and fracture resistance of elastomers, plastics, and composites under service-relevant conditions. We provide custom specimen preparation to match specific geometries and application needs. Impact testing can be performed on materials aged in acids, bases, brines, hydrocarbons, and under extreme pressures, with cryogenic to 400°C aging capabilities to ensure that test results accurately reflect performance in demanding field environments
Testing Details
The testing process for Charpy and Izod impact resistance begins by preparing specimens to standard dimensions, which helps create a consistent point of fracture. For Charpy testing (ISO 179-1 and ISO 179-2), the specimen is supported horizontally between two mounting points, while for Izod testing (ASTM D256, ISO 180), the specimen is clamped vertically upright. A pendulum hammer is then released from a fixed height to strike the notched area of the specimen. The absorbed energy is calculated by comparing the hammer’s swing height before and after impact. The result provides insight into the material’s impact strength and fracture behavior under sudden loading, providing precise measurements of material toughness.