ASTM D3170/D3170M-14 (2022) PDF

Full title and description

ASTM D3170/D3170M-14(2022) — Standard Test Method for Chipping Resistance of Coatings. This test method describes a controlled laboratory procedure for determining the resistance of coating systems to chipping damage by stones or other flying objects (commonly performed with a gravelometer) and is intended to produce repeatable impact conditions to evaluate coating formulations and systems for field performance, particularly in automotive applications.

Abstract

Provides a standardized procedure to assess coating chipping resistance by projecting gravel or other media at coated panels under controlled conditions. The method defines test apparatus, sample preparation, test angles and temperatures, evaluation criteria (visual comparison/rating), and reporting requirements. It is similar in approach and purpose to SAE J-400 and is used to compare coatings, optimize formulations, and verify performance to customer or regulatory requirements.

General information

• Status: Active — reapproved/reaffirmed in 2022 (published originally 2014; listed by ASTM as D3170/D3170M-14R22 / D3170/D3170M-14(2022)).
• Publication date: Original publication: July 1, 2014. Reaffirmation / last updated: 2022 (R22 / July 2022).
• Publisher: ASTM International (American Society for Testing and Materials).
• ICS / categories: 87.040 — Paints and varnishes (coatings).
• Edition / version: D3170/D3170M-14 (reapproved/issued as the 2014 designation with a 2022 reaffirmation / R22).
• Number of pages: 7 pages (concise test method).

Scope

This method covers determination of the resistance of coatings to chipping damage by stones or other flying objects. It gives nominal dimensions, permits use of either SI or inch‑pound units (to be used independently), and allows testing at different temperatures to simulate service conditions. The procedure is intended for laboratory comparison and quality control of coating systems (not a substitute for field testing).

Key topics and requirements

• Purpose: measurement of chipping resistance of coatings (stone-impact / gravelometer test).
• Apparatus: gravelometer or equivalent stone‑projection device and controlled compressed‑air supply.
• Test specimens: coated panels prepared and conditioned per method; orientation/angle specified (typically 90° for this method).
• Test media: specified aggregate/grit size and mass to provide repeatable impact energy.
• Temperature considerations: test may be conducted at lower temperatures to reflect decreased flexibility and simulate service extremes.
• Evaluation: visual comparison and rating scales (commonly numerical ratings) to quantify chipping damage; reporting requirements specified.
• Units: SI and inch‑pound units are both provided but treated independently (do not combine).

Typical use and users

Used by automotive OEMs and suppliers, coating formulators, quality and testing laboratories, materials engineers, and researchers to screen and compare coating systems, support product development, verify production quality, and satisfy supplier/customer performance requirements related to stone‑chip resistance.

Related standards

Closely related to SAE J-400 (surface coatings — chipping / stone‑chip testing). Other coatings test standards commonly used alongside D3170 include ASTM methods for adhesion, abrasion and impact testing (examples: ASTM D3359 for adhesion, ASTM D4060 for abrasion, ASTM D2794 for impact), depending on the broader performance program. (Users should select complementary methods appropriate to their application.)

Keywords

chipping resistance, stone chip, gravelometer, coatings, stone impact, automotive coatings, chipping test, D3170, D3170M-14, chipping rating.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM D3170/D3170M-14(2022) is a standardized laboratory test method for evaluating the chipping (stone‑impact) resistance of coating systems using a gravelometer or equivalent apparatus.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers test apparatus, specimen preparation, test media and procedure, temperature considerations, evaluation (visual rating), units, and reporting for comparing resistance of coatings to chipping by stones or flying objects.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Automotive OEMs and suppliers, paint and coating formulators, independent test laboratories, and researchers concerned with stone‑chip performance and quality control.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: ASTM lists the D3170/D3170M-14 designation as the 2014 method with a 2022 reaffirmation/update (often referenced as D3170/D3170M-14(2022) or D3170_D3170M-14R22), indicating the method remains available from ASTM. Some catalogs or national stores may show the 2014 implementation as withdrawn in 2022 — users should consult the official ASTM record or ASTM Customer Service for the definitive current status and to obtain the official document.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: It is part of ASTM’s D01 committee suite of standards for paints, coatings and related materials — specifically developed by subcommittee D01.55 for coating performance tests; it is typically used alongside other D01 methods for comprehensive coating evaluation.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: chipping resistance, gravelometer, stone chip, coatings, automotive, D3170, chipping test.