ASTM D1210-05 (2022) PDF

Full title and description

ASTM D1210-05(2022) — Standard Test Method for Fineness of Dispersion of Pigment‑Vehicle Systems by Hegman‑Type Gage. This test method specifies how to measure the degree of dispersion (commonly called "fineness of grind") of pigments in liquid coatings and related pigment‑vehicle systems using a Hegman‑type fineness gauge; it can also be used for cleanliness/texture assessments of particulate inclusions in such systems.

Abstract

This standard describes a laboratory procedure and reporting practice for determining pigment dispersion fineness with a Hegman‑type gage. Results are reported on the Hegman scale (and may be correlated to micrometers) to indicate the largest particle dimension remaining after grinding; the method is intended for quality control, R&D and acceptance testing of coatings, intermediates and pigment concentrates.

General information

• Status: Active / current standard.
• Publication date: Reissued / reapproved 01 July 2022 (designation shown as D1210‑05(2022)).
• Publisher: ASTM International (Committee D01 — Paints and Related Coatings).
• ICS / categories: Pigments and extenders; binders — commonly classified under ICS codes ~87.060.10 and 87.060.20.
• Edition / version: Designation D1210‑05 with 2022 reapproval (appears as D1210‑05(2022)).
• Number of pages: 11 pages.

Scope

The scope covers measurement of the degree of pigment dispersion in pigment‑vehicle systems (liquid coatings and intermediates) by drawing a sample across a Hegman‑type fineness gauge and visually/optically determining the Hegman reading that corresponds to the last visible coarse particle streaks. The method defines apparatus requirements, sample preparation, technique, and reporting conventions (Hegman units and SI equivalents where provided). It is intended for routine QC, specification testing and interlaboratory comparison of dispersion fineness.

Key topics and requirements

• Purpose and definitions: "fineness of grind" / degree of dispersion and related terminology.
• Apparatus: Hegman‑type fineness gage (specifications for scale, grooves, plate, and finish).
• Sample preparation and conditioning: mixing, thinning (if applicable), temperature control and representative sampling.
• Test procedure: drawing technique, lighting/visual conditions, number of readings and how to determine the reported Hegman value.
• Reporting: Hegman units (and approximate micrometer equivalents), test conditions, any dilution, and remarks on texture/cleanliness.
• Precision and interlaboratory considerations: recommended practices for reproducibility and repeatability (interlaboratory study guidance available).
• Health/safety note: user responsibility to observe appropriate safety, health and environmental practices when handling pigments and solvents.

Typical use and users

Used by paint and coatings manufacturers, pigment suppliers, quality control and analytical laboratories, formulation and process development teams, and contract testing labs. Common applications include production QC of paints and inks, incoming pigment acceptance, verification of dispersion equipment performance, and R&D evaluation of milling and dispersing processes.

Related standards

ASTM D1210 is commonly referenced alongside other coatings and pigment test methods such as ASTM methods for oil absorption, viscosity, and related paint tests (examples include D1483, D562, D1200 among many coatings standards). It is maintained under ASTM Committee D01 (Paints and Related Coatings).

Keywords

fineness of grind; fineness of dispersion; Hegman gage; pigment‑vehicle; coatings; paint QC; particle size; texture; cleanliness; Hegman scale; grind gauge.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM D1210‑05(2022) is a standardized test method that defines how to measure the fineness of dispersion (fineness of grind) of pigments in pigment‑vehicle systems using a Hegman‑type fineness gauge.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers apparatus requirements, sample preparation, test technique (drawing a sample across a Hegman gauge), reading/interpretation of the Hegman value, reporting conventions, and guidance on precision and interlaboratory comparison.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Paint/coatings manufacturers, pigment and additive suppliers, QC laboratories, R&D formulators, and any laboratory performing dispersion or texture/cleanliness assessments on liquid coating systems.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: The designation D1210‑05(2022) indicates the 2005 method was reissued/reapproved in 2022 and is shown as an active/current ASTM standard as of the 2022 reapproval. Users should confirm the current status with ASTM for any updates after 2022.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: It is part of the suite of ASTM D01 (Paints and Related Coatings) methods and is frequently used together with other paint/coating test standards for viscosity, oil absorption, hiding power and related properties.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Hegman gage, fineness of grind, dispersion, pigment‑vehicle system, coatings QC, grind gauge, Hegman scale, particle size.