ASTM D2583-25 PDF

Full title and description

Standard Test Method for Indentation Hardness of Rigid Plastics by Means of a Barcol Impressor — a concise ASTM procedure that defines how to determine the indentation (Barcol) hardness of reinforced and nonreinforced rigid plastics using Barcol Impressor Models 934‑1 and 935, for use in production control, acceptance testing, and routine laboratory evaluation.

Abstract

This test method describes a portable, repeatable indentation hardness measurement using a Barcol Impressor to assess the surface hardness of rigid plastics. It specifies instrument models, basic specimen preparation and conditioning guidance, and standardized reading/reporting conventions (SI units are the standard). The method is short (four pages) and intended primarily for production control and materials assessment.

General information

• Status: Active.
• Publication date: April 1, 2025.
• Publisher: ASTM International.
• ICS / categories: 83.080.01 (Plastics in general).
• Edition / version: ASTM D2583‑25 (current edition).
• Number of pages: 4.

Scope

This test method covers determination of indentation hardness of both reinforced and nonreinforced rigid plastics by using a Barcol Impressor (Models 934‑1 and 935). Values stated in SI units are normative; values in other units are informational. The standard notes that material‑specific ASTM specifications take precedence over default specimen preparation or testing parameters when applicable, and it indicates there is no known ISO equivalent.

Key topics and requirements

• Instrument: Barcol Impressor, Model Nos. 934‑1 and 935 (use specified indenter and reading scale).
• Specimen preparation and conditioning: follow material‑specific ASTM specifications if available; otherwise use default conditioning prior to testing.
• Test procedure: apply the Barcol Impressor per method instructions, take specified number of indentations and report the mean as required by the method.
• Units and reporting: SI units are standard; report test conditions (temperature, conditioning) and instrument model/version.
• Limitations: intended for rigid plastics; not a substitute for other hardness scales for elastomers or very soft plastics.
• Quality control: method is suitable for production control and on‑part testing because the instrument is portable.

Typical use and users

Used by materials testing laboratories, QA/QC departments, manufacturers of rigid plastic parts and composites, product development/R&D groups, and inspection personnel who require a quick, on‑site surface hardness check for production control, acceptance testing, or comparative evaluation.

Related standards

Related references and standards to consider include material‑specific ASTM specifications referenced via Classification System D4000 (which may override specimen preparation or testing parameters), other hardness or mechanical property test methods used for plastics (for example durometer/shore tests where appropriate), and internal quality standards. The method itself notes there is no known ISO equivalent.

Keywords

Barcol Impressor, Barcol hardness, indentation hardness, rigid plastics, Model 934‑1, Model 935, ASTM D2583‑25, hardness test, plastics testing, production control.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM D2583‑25 is the ASTM test method that defines how to measure indentation (Barcol) hardness of rigid plastics using a Barcol Impressor.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers test apparatus (Barcol Impressor Models 934‑1 and 935), basic specimen preparation/conditioning guidance (or reference to material‑specific ASTM specs), the procedure for taking hardness readings, reporting conventions, and intended use for reinforced and nonreinforced rigid plastics.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Materials labs, manufacturing QC/inspection teams, R&D and product developers, and anyone needing portable surface hardness checks on rigid plastic parts.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: Current — the active edition is ASTM D2583‑25, published April 1, 2025 (listed as active and maintained by ASTM).

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: It is maintained within ASTM Committee D20 (Plastics) and references the ASTM material classification system (D4000) when applicable; it exists alongside other ASTM test methods for mechanical and surface properties of plastics.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Barcol, Barcol Impressor, indentation hardness, rigid plastics, Model 934‑1, Model 935, D2583‑25.