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- Standard / ASTM-F2132-01
ASTM F2132-01
ASTM F2132-01
ASTM F2132 is a standardized test that can be used to test the strength and durability of plastic shopping bags by determining how much force is necessary to separate or pull apart sections of handles under controlled conditions. A wide range of plastic carry bags are used to provide support for different loads in retail, grocery, and packaging applications without any failure. The handle area is of special importance as it undergoes concentrated stress when lifting and carrying. ASTM F2132 provides a standard method of testing, which enables the manufacturer to evaluate the load-bearing capacity of bag handles for their use.
Significance
ASTM F2132 is a mean—only applicable in the production and production control of plastic bag manufacturers. Fracture of weak or poorly designed “handles” can result in product damage, customer dissatisfaction, and safety risks. Standardized methods of testing allow manufacturers to assess the strength of the handles, to compare different formulations of materials, and to evaluate the effects of production variables on handle performance. The standard also will contribute to more effective and resilient packaging, with real metrics for the performance of its handles. Compliance testing to ASTM F2132 will help manufacturers to assure consistency in their products and ensure bags will endure typical stresses in the course of their usage and transportation. Scope ASTM F2132 is a standard that specifies the controlled tensile testing procedures to be used in determining the strength of the handle pull of plastic shopping bags. The standard includes procedures for measuring the force to cause separation/failure in the handle area. It can be used by plastic bag manufacturers, packaging suppliers, packaging quality control departments, retailers, and lab packers or testers handling shopping bag and other carrying product design, manufacture, and assessment in packaging processes.