Presto - Testing Instruments
Presto - Testing Instruments

Peel Strength Testing Machine Standards ASTM, ISO, and BIS

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Vishal Malhotra-Testing Instrument Expert

24-1-2026

Peel strength testing helps companies determine if a seal, label, tape, or laminate will hold up in real handling. Most failures are due to not having materials that are "bad," but rather due to unclear test methods or mismatched products. Those standards solve this by defining how to prepare samples, test speed, measure force & report results. The choice usually comes down to ASTM, ISO, or BIS, depending on customer requirements and region. A controlled pulling force is applied on a peel strength testing machine so that the results stay repeatable. When an  equipment meets the right standard, it reduces disputes, improves quality control, and makes supplier approvals faster for an organization.

Why Standards Matter for Peel Tests

Standards matter for peel tests as it makes sure that two different labs can test the same material and still get comparable results. They set common rules for sample size, peel angle, speed, conditioning, and reporting. Without these basics, results can look “better” or “worse” simply due to test setup differences, not due to real material changes.
Standards also guide equipment selection. Decision of choosing machine typically depends on whether the test is for packaging seals, adhesive bonds, or laminate layers. For example, a packaging line may need a packaging peel tester for flexible laminates, while a tape lab may prefer an adhesive peel strength tester for pressure-sensitive adhesives. Decision of choosing machine typically depends on whether the test is for packaging seals, adhesive bonds, or laminate layers.

Typical Measurements and Reporting

A peel test usually reports force per width, such as  or . Most standards also expect reporting of:

  • Test speed and peel angle used
  • Sample width and number of specimens
  • Average peel force and variation (such as standard deviation)
  • Failure mode (adhesive failure, cohesive failure, delamination, seal rupture)

Different products require different test methods, even if the same machine is used. Many labs handle these methods with interchangeable grips and fixtures:

  • 90° peel for laminates and some bonded layers
  • 180° peel for tapes and labels
  • T-peel for flexible materials bonded face-to-face

ASTM Standards and What is Expected

ASTM methods are widely used in packaging, tapes, labels, and laminates, especially when customers or export markets ask for ASTM-based reporting. An ASTM peel test machine is not a separate machine type, but equipment configured to meet the ASTM method requirements for speed control, force accuracy, and fixtures.
ASTM documents usually provide step-by-step guidance on specimen preparation and test execution. This is important because peel tests are sensitive to small changes in cutting quality, dwell time, and alignment. Even minor misalignment can change the peak force and the curve shape.

ASTM Focus Areas

  • ASTM methods often emphasise repeatability through:
  • Clear specimen dimensions and cutting method
  • Defined conditioning time and environment
  • Specified crosshead speed and angle control
  • Standard data handling for averages and variability

Where ASTM Is Commonly Used

ASTM is frequently selected for:

  • Tapes and labels used in logistics and retail
  • Flexible packaging laminates and printed films
  • Adhesive bonds in converting and assembly operations

ISO Standards and Global Compliance

ISO standards are often preferred when a company operates across multiple countries or supplies to global brands. ISO methods typically align with international reporting formats and quality systems. In many procurement checks, ISO compliance is treated as a baseline requirement for lab practices, calibration discipline, and documentation.

A well-configured digital peel strength tester helps ISO-oriented labs by providing controlled speed, stable force sampling, and consistent data export. Digital systems also reduce manual errors in reading force values and help trace results back to instrument calibration records.

  • ISO Documentation and Traceability Needs
  • ISO-driven testing usually expects strong documentation habits, such as:
  • Calibration certificates for load cells and speed verification
  • Test reports with operator, date, method, and specimen details
  • Clear pass or fail criteria tied to product specifications
  • Matching ISO Methods to Packaging and Seals

In packaging, peel testing is often linked with sealing performance checks. A seal strength tester may be used when the main requirement is the strength of heat seals in pouches, sachets, and lidding. Peel testing and seal testing overlap in real packaging labs, but the reported property and fixture setup can differ, so labs choose the method that matches the product standard and customer spec.

BIS Standards, Selection Tips, and Buying Factors

BIS standards matter for companies that sell into India, supply to regulated sectors, or follow tender requirements. Even when BIS does not publish a direct equivalent for every peel method, Indian labs often align BIS expectations with good testing practice, proper calibration, and consistent reporting formats to prevent disagreements between buyers and suppliers.
While choosing a machine, buyers generally compare capability, service support, and budget. So a good peel strength testing machine should cover the force range, offer stable speed control, and support relevant fixtures. The lab also needs to decide whether it will primarily test packaging laminates, adhesives, or seals, because that choice affects grips and accessories.

Checklist Before Purchase

  • Confirm standards: ASTM, ISO, BIS, or customer-specific methods
  • Choose a suitable load cell capacity with good resolution at low forces
  • Ensure speed range matches the method requirements
  • Check fixture compatibility for , and T-peel
  • Verify software can export reports and raw curves

Cost and Supplier Evaluation

Pricing varies by force capacity, software features, and automation level. Buyers often look for a peel strength tester price to set their realistic budget, but after-sales support as much important as the initial quote. A reliable peel strength tester manufacturer should provide calibration guidance, spare availability, and clear training for operators.
For packaging lines that need a focused setup, a dedicated packaging peel tester configuration can be cost-effective. 

Standards referring Peel tests

  • ASTM- ASTM D3330 / D3330M-Peel Adhesion of Pressure-Sensitive Tape
  • ASTM D1876-T-Peel Test
  • ISO-ISO 29862- Peel Adhesion of Pressure-Sensitive Tapes
  • BIS-IS 13276- Flexible Packaging – Lamination Evaluation

To Conclude with;

Each labs standards ASTM, ISO, and BIS  help to keep results consistent across batches, suppliers, and locations. Final choice is dependent on customer requirements, geography, and whether the main application is being used to test  packaging, adhesives, or seals. The right method, fixtures, and reporting discipline make a peel strength testing machine a quality tool rather than an endless source of retesting. 

Connect with Presto Group Today!

Worried about unpredictable results and expensive reworks? No worries, our range of high-quality peel testing devices to ensure confidence in every seal.

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Email: response@prestogroup.com
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