1. Function and Application
The Gardner Style Falling Dart Impact Tester is designed to evaluate the impact resistance of organic coatings and rigid materials. It establishes quality standards for surface damage resistance and substrate penetration for materials such as plastics, resins, composites, fiberglass, sheet metals, and rigid PVC sheets (30–60 mils thick).
This tester is particularly suitable for materials that exceed the 160 in-lb limit of the Heavy Duty Impact Tester. The test is performed by dropping a cylindrical weight through a vertical guide tube onto an indenter resting on the sample. Impact damage can be assessed visually or using magnification or chemical indicators (e.g., copper sulfate on steel samples).
2. Applicable Test Standards
ASTM D2794 – Impact resistance of coatings on rigid substrates
ASTM D3029 – Coating impact resistance evaluation
ASTM D4226 – Impact of rigid PVC sheets
ASTM D5420 – Instrumented impact testing of coatings and films
American Architectural Manufacturers 4226 – Coating and substrate impact specifications
3. Technical Specifications
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Test Type | Falling dart impact of coatings and rigid sheets |
| Construction | Aluminum and stainless steel components |
| Drop Tube | Vertical, 40-inch graduated guide tube (English version) |
| Impact Indenter / Punch | Supplied; removable and customizable |
| Drop Weights | 2 lb (80 in-lb) and 4 lb (160 in-lb) standard; Metric version: 1 kg and 2 kg |
| Sample Support | Die/anvil base supports thin panels 2 inches below tube |
| Graduations | Inch-lb (English) or kg-cm (Metric) along guide tube slot |
| Operation | Manual lift and release of drop weight via pin handle |
| Temperature / Environment | Ambient testing of coatings and substrates |
| Finish | Powder-coated and anodized surfaces for durability |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturer’s warranty |
| Optional Features | Custom specimen holders, various impact weights, metric/English versions |
4. Features and Advantages
High-Precision Impact Testing: Graduated drop tube allows determination of failure point by gradually increasing drop height.
OEM and Standard Compliant: Meets ASTM D2794, D3029, D4226, D5420, and American Architectural Manufacturers 4226 requirements.
Customizable Configuration: Optional specimen holders, weights, and Metric/English versions available.
Durable Construction: Aluminum and stainless steel with powder-coated and anodized finishes for long-term reliability.
Versatile Applications: Suitable for coatings, PVC sheets, composites, metals, and other rigid materials.
Simple Operation: Manual pin-handle enables controlled and repeatable impacts.
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