ASTM F1957-24 PDF

Full title and description

Standard Test Method for Composite Foam Hardness—Durometer Hardness. This ASTM F1957-24 test method defines the use of a Type CF durometer to measure indentation hardness of composite foam products (two or more elastomeric materials, one of which is foam or foam-like), including constructions with armatures for added structural integrity used in seating, restraints, cushions and related assemblies.

Abstract

Defines an empirical procedure for measuring indentation hardness of composite foam materials using a specific durometer geometry and force (Type CF). The method relates penetration to an indentation hardness value and emphasizes its use for quality control and comparative testing rather than as a direct measure of fundamental material properties. The standard clarifies that it is not equivalent to other indentation hardness methods and notes unit conventions and traceability requirements.

General information

• Status: Active.
• Publication date: November 1, 2024 (issued as F1957-24; last update noted November 20, 2024).
• Publisher: ASTM International.
• ICS / categories: 83.100 — Cellular materials (foam).
• Edition / version: F1957-24 (yeared designation).
• Number of pages: 6 pages. DOI: 10.1520/F1957-24.

Scope

This test method specifies the instrument type (Type CF durometer) and procedure for determining indentation hardness of composite foams and foam-containing assemblies. It covers products comprised of two or more elastomeric components where at least one component is foam or foam-like, and it applies to constructions that may include reinforcing armatures such as metal, plastic, or wood. The method is intended for control and comparative purposes and is explicitly stated as not equivalent to other indentation hardness standards (for example, D1415 or D2240). Traceability to NIST or equivalent organizations is required for measurement equipment.

Key topics and requirements

• Use of a Type CF (composite foam) durometer and specified indentor geometry and applied force to obtain indentation hardness readings.
• Procedure for specimen placement, instrument positioning, reading maximum penetration/peak values, and reporting of results in standardized units.
• Applicability to composite foam assemblies including those with internal armatures (metal, plastic, wood) typical of seating and restraint components.
• Statement that results are empirical and intended primarily for quality control/comparative purposes; no simple conversion to fundamental material properties.
• Requirement for measurement traceability (calibration traceable to NIST or internationally recognized organizations) and unit conventions (SI as standard).
• Clarification that the method is optional and not a safety standard; users must address safety/regulatory concerns separately.

Typical use and users

Manufacturers of foamed and composite foam products, test laboratories, quality/inspection teams, suppliers of seating, restraints and cushioning (including amusement ride cushions, vehicle seats, headrests, armrests, dashboards), and instrument manufacturers that supply durometers designed to meet the Type CF requirements. Standards committees and regulatory bodies may reference the method for consistency in comparative testing.

Related standards

Referenced and related ASTM test methods and practices include Test Method D2240 (durometer hardness of elastomers), Test Method D1415, and D785 for harder materials where applicable; other F-series standards for amusement rides and devices may cite or be used in conjunction with F1957 for cushions and restraints. Users should consult the referenced methods when comparing results between different hardness measurement techniques.

Keywords

durometer, composite foam, foam hardness, indentation hardness, Type CF, cellular materials, ASTM F1957, cushioning, seat padding, test method.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM F1957-24 is a test method that specifies how to measure the indentation (durometer) hardness of composite foam materials using a Type CF durometer.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers the instrument type, test procedure, specimen handling, reading and reporting practices for composite foams (two or more elastomeric components with at least one foam component), and notes limits of equivalence with other hardness tests. It also includes calibration/traceability guidance.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Product manufacturers (foams, seating, restraints), independent testing labs, quality control personnel, and suppliers of durometers and test instruments. The amusement-ride, furniture, and automotive interiors sectors are common users.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: Current — published/issued as F1957-24 in 2024 and listed as active. Users should confirm their copy for any interim amendments or revisions.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: It was developed within ASTM Committee F24 (Amusement Rides and Devices) and aligns with other ASTM F-series practices and test methods used for ride padding, seating, and restraint components. It is functionally associated with other hardness and materials test methods (for example D2240).

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Durometer, composite foam, hardness, indentation hardness, Type CF, cellular materials, ASTM F1957.