ASTM d1037 Section 17
Modified Janka Ball Hardness
ASTM D1037 Section 17 Modified Janka Ball Hardness
Hardness Test for Wood-Base Fiber and Particle Panel Materials
ASTM D1037 section 17 is used to determine the hardness of a panel. A universal testing machine presses a steel ball bearing into the surface of the panel. The hardness is measured as the force required to embed the ball bearing to a set depth.
Which materials should to be tested in accordance with ASTM D1037 §17?
The Janka Hardness test method specified in ASTM D1037 is designed for use with wood-base fiber and particle panel materials such as medium density fiber board and particleboard. However, as a simple test method, it may be easily adapted for all kinds of wood products. It is also commonly performed on engineered wood flooring, plywood, and engineered wood siding.
Why should I use ASTM D1037 §17?
Hardness is a critical performance characteristic for a wide range of materials and applications. The Janka Hardness test provides a simple and effective way to assess this characteristic with straightforward and easy to compare results
How is ASTM D1037 §17 testing performed?
Test specimens consist of a 3-inch by 6-inch block which is at least 1 inch thick. As this test is often performed on materials materials manufactured in thicknesses less than 1 inch, several thicknesses of the material may be stacked together to reach the thickness requirement. In cases where the material is intended to be installed over a known backer or underlayment, that substrate may be used as the additional layer(s) instead.
The specimen is supported on a flat fixture and a steel ball bearing with a diameter of 0.444 inches is pressed into the top surface. Using a Universal Testing Machine, the load is applied at a constant rate of 0.25 inches per minute until the ball is embedded in the specimen surface to a depth of 0.222 inches. The applied force is measured throughout the test, and the hardness is reported as the maximum force applied during the test.
What data is included in an ASTM D1037 §17 report?
- Panel hardness data and average
- Specimen preparation information such as number of layers and how they are joined
- Which face or faces of the panel were tested
Additional Information
The indentation fixture Capital Testing uses for Janka hardness testing does not contain a full ball bearing, but rather a geometrically identical hemispherical indenting head
Is Capital Testing an accredited ASTM D1037 section 17 laboratory?
Capital Testing and Certification Services is ISO/IEC 17025-accredited to conduct ASTM D1037 § testing. Click here for Capital Testing’s full ISO/IEC 17025 scope of accreditation. Contact experts@capitaltesting.org to discuss your testing needs, or to request a quote!
