This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

 
Designation: D4541  −  17

Standard Test Method for

Pull-Off Strength of Coatings Using Portable Adhesion
Testers1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D4541; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of 
original adoption or, in the case of revis
original revision,
ion, the year of last revision.
revision. A number in paren
parenthese
thesess indicates the year of last reappr
reapproval.
oval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Sco
Scope*
pe* that co
that coati
ating
ngss ca
can
n be tes
teste
ted
d ev
even
en th
thou
ough
gh on
only
ly on
onee si
side
de is
1.1 This test method covers a procedure for evaluating
evaluating the accessible. Measurements are limited by the strength of adhe-
pull-o
pul l-offf str
streng
ength
th (co
(commo
mmonlynly ref
referr
erred
ed to as adh
adhesio
esion)
n) of a sive
sive bo
bond
ndss be
betw
twee
een
n th
thee lo
load
adin
ing
g fix
fixtu
ture
re an
and
d ththee sp
speci
ecime
menn
coating
coa ting sys
system
tem fro
from
m meta
metall sub
substr
strates
ates.. Pul
Pull-o
l-offf str
streng
ength
th of  surface or the cohesive strengths of the glue, coating layers,
coatingss from concrete
coating concrete is described in Test Method   D7234.
D7234. and substrate.
This test offers two test protocols. Protocol 1 (test to fracture) 1.4 Thi
Thiss test can be destructiv
destructivee and spot repairs
repairs may be
determines the greatest perpendicular force (in tension) that a necessary.
surface area can bear before a plug of material is detached. 1.5 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound
inch-pound units
Protocol 2 (pass/fail) determines if the coated surface remains are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in
intact at a defined load criteria. Fracture will occur along the each system may not be exa exact
ct equ
equival
ivalent
ents;
s; ther
therefo
efore,
re, eac
each
h
weakest plane within the system comprised of the test fixture, system shall be used independently of the other. Combining
glue, coating system,
system, and substr
substrate,
ate, and will be exposed by the
fracture surface. This test method maximizes tensile stress as values from the two systems may result in non-conformance
with the standard.
compared
compar ed to the shear stress applied by other methods,
methods, such as
scratch or knife adhesion, and results may not be comparable. 1.6   This standar
standard d doe
doess not purport
purport to add
addre
ress
ss all of the
NOTE   1—The
1—The proproced
cedure
ure in thi
thiss sta
standa
ndard
rd was dev
develo
eloped
ped for met
metalal safety
safe ty co
conc
ncern
erns,
s, if an
anyy, as
asso
socia
ciated
ted wi
with
th its us
use.
e. It is th
thee
substrates, but may be appropriate for other rigid substrates such as plastic responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
and wood. Factors such as loading rate and flexibility of the substrate must  priate safety, health and environmental practices and deter-
be addressed by the user/specifier. mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
NOTE 2—The procedure in this standard was developed for use on flat
1.7   This inte
interna
rnatio
tional
nal sta
standa
ndard
rd was dev
develo
eloped
ped in acc
accor
or--
surfaces. Depending on the radius of the surface, the results could have
greater variability with lower values and averages. dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
izat
izatio
ionn est
estab
ablis
lishe
hed
d in th thee De
Deci
cisio
sionn on Pr
Prin
incip
ciples
les fo
forr th
thee
1.2 Pull-o
Pull-offf streng
strength
th measu
measurements
rements depend upon material
material,,
 Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
instrumentation and test parameters. Results obtained by each
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
test method may give different results. Results should only be
 Barriers to Trad
Tradee (TBT) Committee.
assessed for each test method and not be compared with other
instruments.
instruments. There are five instrument types, identified as Test 2. Referenc
Referenced
ed Documents
Methods B-F.
when reportingItresults
reporting is imperative
results.
. to identify the test method used 2.1   ASTM Standards:3
NOTE   3—Meth
3—Methodod A, whi
which
ch app
appear
eared
ed in pre
previo
vious
us ver
versio
sions
ns of thi
thiss
D2651 Guide
D2651  Guide for Preparation
Preparation of Metal Surfaces for Adhesive
standard, has been eliminated as its main use is for testing on concrete Bonding
substrates (see Test Method D7234
Method  D7234).
). D3933  Gui
D3933 Guide
de for Pre
Prepar
paratio
ation
n of Alu
Alumin
minum
um Sur
Surfac
faces
es for
1.3 This test method describes
describes a class of apparatus known as Structural
Structu ral Adhes
Adhesives
ives Bondi
Bondingng (Phos
(Phosphor
phoric
ic Acid Anodiz-
portable pull-off adhesion testers.2 They are capable of apply- ing)
ing a concentric load and counter load to a single surface so D7234 Test
D7234  Test Method for Pull-Off Adhesion Strength of Coat-
ings on Concrete Using Portable Pull-Off Adhesion Tes-
ters
1 E691  Practic
E691 Practicee for Condu
Conducting
cting an Interl
Interlabora
aboratory
tory Study to
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D01
Committee D01  on Paint
and Related Coatings, Materials, and Applications and is the direct responsibility of  Determine the Precision of a Test Method
Subcommittee D01.46
Subcommittee  D01.46   on Industrial Protective Coatings.
Current
Curre nt editio
edition
n approv
approved
ed Aug. 1, 2017. Published
Published Sept
September
ember 2017. Origin
Originally
ally
approved in 1993. Last previous edition approved in 2009 as D4541 – 09 1. DOI:ɛ 3
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
10.1520/D4541-17. contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For  Annual Book of ASTM 
2
The term adhesion tester may be somewhat of a misnomer, but its adoption by Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
two manufacturers
manufacturers and at least two patent
patentss indica
indicates
tes continued usage. the ASTM website.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

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  D4541 − 17

3. Summ
Summary
ary of Test
Test Method 5. Appar
Apparatus
atus
3.1 The gen genera
erall pul
pull-o
l-offf test is per
perfor
formed
med by secsecuri
uring
ng a 5.1   Adhesion Tester,  commercially available, or comparable
loading
load ing fixt
fixture
ure (do
(dolly
lly,, stu
stud)d) nor
normal
mal (pe
(perpe
rpendi
ndicul
cular)
ar) to the apparatus
appar atus to the specific examples listed in Annex
in  Annex A1 – Annex
surface of the coating with a glue. After the glue is cured, a A5..
A5
testing apparatus is attached to the loading fixture and aligned 5.1.1  Loading Fixtures, having a flat surface on one end that
to apply tension normal to the test surface. The force applied to can be adhered to the coating and a means of attachment to the
the loading fixture is then gradually and uniformly increased tester on the other end. Optimal size of the loading fixture is
and monitored until either the loading fixture is detached, or a determined by the adhesion tester capabilities. The fixture and
specified load value is reached and the test terminated. The two tester
tester com
combin
binatio
ation
n sho
should
uld be cho
chosen
sen so thathatt the exp
expecte
ected
d
common uses of this test are test to fracture (Protocol 1), and maximum pull load the coating will be subjected to during the
pass
pa ss/f
/fail
ail tes
testin
ting
g (P(Pro
roto
toco
coll 2)
2).. Tes
estt to fr
frac
actu
ture
re is us
used
ed to test is within the range of the tester.
determine a maximum load that can be achieved when a plug 5.1.2   Detaching Assembly   (adhesion tester), having a cen-
of material is detached with the selected testing parameters. tral grip for engaging the fixture.
5.1.3   Base, on the detaching assembly, or an annular bearing
Pass/fail is used to verify the results of a testing procedure can
ring
rin g if nee
needed
ded for uniunifor
formly
mly pre
pressin
ssing
g aga
agains
instt the coa
coatin
ting
g
meet a minimum load criterion. When the loading fixture is
surfac
sur facee aro
around
und the fixt
fixture
ure either directly
directly,, or by way of an
detached, the exposed surface represents the plane of limiting
interm
intermedi
ediate
ate bea
bearin
ring
g rin
ring.
g. A mea
meansns of alig
alignin
ning
g the bas
basee is
strength within the system. The nature of the plane of fracture
needed so that the resultant force is normal to the surface.
is qua
qualifi
lified
ed in acco
accorda
rdance
nce wit
with h the per
percen
centt of adh
adhesiv
esivee and
5.1.4 Means of moving
moving the grip away from
from the base to allow
cohesive failures, and the actual interfaces and layers involved.
the loading of the fixture in as smooth and uniform a manner
The reported load is computed based on the maximum indi-
as possible and so that a torsion free, co-axial (opposing pull of 
cated
cate d loa
load,
d, the ins
instru
trumen
mentt cali
calibra
bratio
tion
n dat
data,
a, and the ori
origin
ginal
al
the grip and push of the base along the same axis) force results
surfac
sur facee are
areaa str
stress
essed.
ed. Resu
Resultslts obt
obtain
ained
ed usi
using
ng dif
differ
ferent
ent test
between
betwee n them.
devices will vary because the results depend on instrumenta-
5.1.5   Timer, or means
means of limiting
limiting the loading
loading rate. A timer is
tion parameters. Variations in results are also expected when
tests are performed under different test procedures or environ- the minimum equipment when used by the operator along with
the force indicator in  5.1.6
 5.1.6..
mental conditions (see  (see   4.2
4.2)).
5.1.6   Forc
Forcee Ind
Indica
icator
tor and Cal
Calibr
ibrati
ation
on Inf
Inform
ormation,   for
ation,
determining the actual force delivered to the loading fixture.
4. Sign
Significan
ificance
ce and Use
5.2   Solvent,  or other means for cleaning the loading fixture
4.1 Th
4.1 Thee pu
pull-
ll-of
offf st
stre
reng
ngth
th of a co
coati
ating
ng is a peperf
rfor
orma
manc
ncee surface.
surface. Finger prints, moisture, oxides, and dust tend to be the
proper
pro perty
ty that may be ref refere
erence
nced
d in spe
specific
cificatio
ations.
ns. Thi
Thiss test primary contaminants.
method serves as a means for uniformly preparing and testing
5.3   Sandpaper, or other means, used to roughen the surfaces
coated surfaces, and evaluating and reporting the results. This
for glue application and adherence to the coating. When using
test method is applicable to any portable apparatus meeting the
sandpaper it is recommended to use 100 grit or finer.
requirements for determining the pull-off strength of a coating
in this standard (see Annexes). 5.4   Glue— the
the material used for securing the loading fixture
to the coating. Two component epoxies and cyanoacrylates are
4.2 Vari
ariatio
ations
ns in res
result
ultss with the same coating
coating are lik
likely
ely two commonly used glues. Select a glue that does not affect the
when
wh en an
anyy pa
para
rame
meter
ter of th
thee tes
testt is ch
chan
ange
ged.
d. Th
This
is in
inclu
clude
dess coatin
coa ting
g pro
proper
perties
ties,, flow thr
throug
ough
h the coa
coatin
ting
g or atta
attack
ck the
change in glue, load fixture size, substrate coating cure time,
pull rate, environmental conditions, if the coating is scored, or coating.
5.5   Clamps, magnetic, mechanical, tape or similar, if needed
using a different device. Therefore, when a series of results will
for holding the fixture in place while the glue cures.
be compared with one another or used for statistical analysis,
the type of apparatus, substrate, test procedures, glue type, and 5.6   Cotton Swabs, or other means for removing excess glue
if scoring is used should be the same for the pulls considered. 4 and defi
definin
ningg the adh
adhere
ered
d are
area.
a. Any meth
method
od for removing
removing
It is recommended that these parameters and the environmental excess glue that damages the surface, such as scoring (see  6.7
 6.7),
),
conditions allowed during the test be mutually agreed upon mustt gen
mus genera
erally
lly be avo
avoide
ided
d sin
since
ce ind
induce
ucedd sur
surfac
facee flaw
flawss may
between the interested parties. cause premature failure of the coating.
5.7   Scoring Tool, circular hole cutter, or similar tool to score
4.3 The purchaser
purchaser or specifier shall
shall designate a specific test
through to the substrate around the loading fixture.
method procedure; B, C, D, E, or F and test Protocol; 1, or 2,
when
wh en ca
calli
lling
ng ou
outt th
this
is st
stan
anda
dard
rd.. In cas
cases
es wh
wher
eree eit
eithe
herr th
thee
Protocol or a pass/fail criterion is not designated, Protocol 1 6. Test Preparation
Preparation
shall be used. 6.1 The method for selecting
selecting the coating
coating sites to be prepared
forr te
fo test
stin
ing
g de
depe
pend
ndss up
upon
on ththee ob
obje
ject
ctiv
ives
es of ththee te
test
st an
and
d
agreemen
agree ments
ts be
betwe
tween
en the cocontr
ntract
acting
ing par
partie
ties.
s. Th
Ther
eree ar
are,
e,
4
however, a few physical restrictions imposed by the general
Reference to potential variability of the adhesion test has been made in various
publications, including the assessment of variability completed for the test method method and apparatus. The following requirements apply to all
found in ASTM Research Report RR:D01-1147. sites:

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2
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  D4541 − 17

6.1.1 The selected test area must

must be large enough to accom-
accom- preventt micr
preven micro-c
o-crac
rackin
kingg in the coa
coating
ting or glu glue,
e, sin
since
ce suc
suchh
modate the specified number of replicate tests. The surface may cracks may cause reduced values. Scored samples constitute a
have any orientation with reference to gravitational pull. Each different test procedure, and should be clearly reported with the
load
loadin
ing
g fix
fixtu
ture
re mu
mustst be se
sepa
para
rate
ted
d by at le least
ast th
thee di
dist
stan
ance
ce resu
results
lts.. Sc
Scor
orin
ing
g may be re requ
quir
ired
ed foforr th
thic
ick-
k-film
film cocoati
ating
ngs,
s,
needed to accomm
accommodateodate the detach
detaching
ing apparatus. For Proto
Protocol
col reinfor
rein forced
ced coat
coatings
ings and elas
elastome
tomeric
ric coacoating
tings.
s. Sco
Scoring
ring,, if 
1 or to sta
statis
tistic
ticall
ally
y ch
char
aract
acter
erize
ize a tetest
st ar
area
ea,, th
thre
reee or mo
morere performed, can be completed before or after the load fixture is
replications are required. glued to the coating. When performed, scoring shall be done in
6.1.2 The selected test areas must also have enough
enough perpen- a manner that ensures the cut is made normal to the coating
dicular and radial clearance to accommodate the apparatus, be surface, in a manner that does not twist or torque the test area
or impart the loading fixture, and minimizes heat generation,
flat
the enough
counter to permit
force. alignment,
It should and be
be noted rigid
that enough to support
measurements close edge damage, or microcracks to the coating or glue and the
to an edge may not be representative of the coating as a whole. substr
sub strate.
ate. For thi
thick
ck coa
coatin
tings
gs it is rec
recomm
ommend ended
ed to coo
cooll the
coatin
coa ting
g and subsubstr
strate
ate dur
during
ing the cut
cuttin
tingg pro
proces
cesss with wat
water
er
6.2 Since the rigidity of the substrate
substrate affects
affects results of the
lubrication.
test an
test andd is no t a co con ntr
tro
oll
llab
able
le te
test
st var
aria
iabble in fi eldeld
measurements, some knowledge of the substrate thickness and NOTE 5—A template made from wood with a hole of the same size as
compos
com positio
ition
n sho
should
uld be rep report
orted
ed for sub
subseq
sequen
uentt ana
analys
lysis
is or the scoring tool drilled through it and secured to the surface may be an
laboratory
laboratory comparisons.
comparisons. For examp example,
le, steel substrate of less effective method to limit sideways movement of the scoring tool.
NOTE 6—-Scoring requirements will vary depending on coating system,
than 3.2 mm (1 ⁄ 8   in.) thic
thickne
knessss usu
usually
ally red
reduce
ucess test res
result
ultss
chemistry, and thickness. A direct comparison of the unscored result to a
compared to 6.4 mm (  ⁄ 4-in.) thick steel substrates.
1
scored result is one method to determine if scoring should be performed.
6.3 Subje
Subject
ct to the requirements
requirements of  6.1,
 6.1 ,   select representative Other
Oth er met
method
hodss for mak
making
ing thi
thiss det
determ
ermina
inatio
tion
n may be empemploy
loyed
ed wit
with
h
agreem
agreement
ent bet
betwee
ween
n the pur
purcha
chaser
ser and sel
seller
ler.. Sco
Scorin
ring
g sho
should
uld not be
test areas and clean the surfaces in a manner that will not affect considered for coatings less than 20 mils.
integrity of the coating or leave a residue. To reduce the risk of 
glue fracture affecting the test, the surface of the coating can be 6.8 Note the appro
approximate
ximate temperature,
temperature, relativ
relativee humid
humidity
ity,,
lightly abraded to promote adhesion of the glue to the surface. and other pertinent environmental conditions during the time of 
If th
thee su
surf
rfac
acee is ab
abra
rade
ded,
d, ca
care
re mu
must
st be tak taken
en to pr
prev
even
entt test.
significant loss of coating thickness. Clean the area to remove
particulates after abrading. Use of a solvent may be necessary 7. Test Procedure
Procedure
to remove all contaminants. If a solvent is required, select one 7.1 Test Methods:
Methods:
that does not compromise the integrity of the coating. 7.1.1   Test Method A (discontinued).
6.4 Clea
Cleann the loading
loading fixt
fixture
ure surface
surface as ind
indicat
icated
ed by the 7.1.2   Test
Test Metho
Methodd B — Fixed Alignment
Alignment Adhes
Adhesion
ion Tester 
Tester 
apparatus manufacturer. Failures at the fixture-glue interface Type II:
can of
ofte
ten
n be av
avoi
oide
ded
d by tr treat
eatin
ing
g th
thee fix
fixtu
ture
re su
surf
rfac
aces
es in 7.1.2.1
7.1.2.1 Opera
Operate
te the instru
instrument
ment in accordance with
accordance with an appropriate ASTM standard practice for Annex A1.
A1.
preparing metal surfaces for glue bonding. 7.1.3   Test Method C — Self-Alignment Adhesion Tester 
NOTE 4—Guides
 4—Guides D2651
 D2651 and
 and D3933
 D3933 are
 are typical of well-proven methods Type III:
for improving adhesive bond strengths to metal surfaces. 7.1.3.1
7.1.3.1 Opera
Operate
te the instru
instrument
ment in accordance with
6.5 Prepa
Prepare
re the glue in accord
accordance
ance with the glue manufac- Annex A2.
A2.
turer’s recommendations. Apply the glue to the fixture or the 7.1.4   Test Method D — Self-Alignment Adhesion Tester 
surface to be tested, or both, using a method and thickness Type IV:
recommended by the glue manufacturer. Be certain to apply the 7.1.4.1
7.1.4.1 Opera
Operate
te the instru
instrument
ment in accordance with
glue across the entire fixture surface. Position the fixture on the Annex A3.
A3.
surface to be tested. Carefully remove any excess glue from 7.1.5  Test Method E — Self-Alignment Adhesion Tester 
around the fixture. (Warning
(Warning—Movement,
—Movement, especially twisting, Type V:
can cau
cause
se tin
tiny
y bub
bubble
bless to coa
coalesc
lescee into large
large hol
holida
idays
ys tha
thatt 7.1.5.1
7.1.5.1 Opera
Operate
te the instru
instrument
ment in accordance with
constitute stress discontinuities during testing which may lead Annex A4.
A4.
to glue fracture.) 7.1.6  Test Method F — Self-Alignment Adhesion Tester 
6.6 Based on the glue manufacturer’s recommendations and Type VI:
the anticipated environmental conditions, allow enough time 7.1.6.1
7.1.6.1 Opera
Operate
te the instru
instrument
ment in accordance with
for the glue to cure. During the glue set and early cure stage, Annex A5.
A5.
a constant contact pressure should be maintained on the fixture.
7.2 Select an adhesion-tester
adhesion-tester with a detaching assembly
assembly and
Magnet
Mag netic
ic or mech
mechanic
anical
al clam
clampin
ping
g sys
system
temss wor
workk well
well,, but
loading fixture size that has a force calibration spanning the
systems relying on tack, such as masking tape, should be used
range
range of exp
expect
ected
ed val
values
ues.. Mid
Mid-ra
-range
nge mea
measur
sureme
ements
nts are
with
air tocare to ensure
intrude thatthe
between they do not
fixture relax
and the with time and allow
test area. recommended, but read the manufacturer’s operating instruc-
tions before proceeding. The adhesion tester shall be calibrated
6.7 Whe
Whenn sco
scorin
ring
g aro
around
und the test surface
surface is agr
agreed
eed upon at the lesser of the manufacturer’s recommended frequency or
between the purchaser and seller, extreme care is required to every three years.

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  D4541 − 17

7.3 If a bea
bearin
ring
g ring or com
compar
parable
able device
device (5.1.3
( 5.1.3)) is to be
used, place it concentrically around the loading fixture on the
coating surface. If shims are required when a bearing ring is
employed,
employ ed, place them betwee
betweenn the tester base and bearin
bearing g ring
rather than on the coating surface.
7.4 Ca
7.4 Care
refu
fully
lly co
conn
nnec
ectt th
thee ce
cent
ntra
rall gr
grip
ip of th
thee de
detac
tachi
hing
ng
assembly to the loading fixture without bumping, bending, or
otherwise prestressing the sample and connect the detaching FIG. 1 Specimen Description
assembly to its control mechanism, if necessary. For nonhori-
zontal sur
zontal surfac
faces,
es, it may be nec
necess
essary
ary with som somee dev
devices
ices to
suppor
sup portt the detaching
detaching assembly
assembly so tha
thatt its wei
weight
ght does not
impact the loading fixture and contribute to the force exerted in d    = equivalent
equivalent diameter
diameter of the
the original
original surface
surface area stressed
stressed
the test. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. having
having uni
units
ts of mill
millime
imeters
ters (in
(inche
ches).
s). Thi
Thiss is usu
usually
ally
equal to the diameter of the loading fixture.
7.5 Ali
Align
gn the dev
device
ice acc
accord
ording
ing to the man
manufa
ufactu
cturer’
rer’ss in-
structions and set the force indicator to zero. 8.3 For tests where the load fixture becomes becomes detached from
the test
tested
ed sur
surfac
face,
e, vis
visuall
uallyy esti
estimate
mate the perpercen
centt of coa
coatin
ting
g
NOTE   7—Prope
7—Properr ali
alignm
gnment
ent is crit
critica
ical.
l. If alig
alignm
nment
ent of the dev
device
ice is adhesive and cohesive fracture and glue failure in accordance
required, use the procedure recommended
required, recommended by the manufacturer
manufacturer of the
adhesion tester and report the procedure used.
to their respective areas and location within the test system
comprised of coating and glue layers. Glue fracture or failure
7.6 Incre
Increase
ase the load to the fixture in as smooth
smooth,, consistent,
consistent, is defined as a visible separation of the glue from itself, the
and uniform a manner and rate as possible. The rate of pull coating or load fixture. A convenient scheme that describes the
shall be 1 MPa/s (150 psi/s) or less. The rate should be set so total test system is outlined in 8.3.1
in  8.3.1 through
 through 8.3.3
 8.3.3..
that the test is completed in less than 100 seconds. If multiple 8.3.1
8.3.1 Des
Descri
cribe
be the spe
specime
cimen n as sub
substr
strate
ate   A, upo
upon
n whi
which
ch
tests are required, the rate of pull shall be similar for each test. successive
succes sive coatin
coatingg layers   B,   C ,   D, etc., have been applied,
NOTE 8—A change in load fixture
fixture size may result in a change in the rate including the glue,  Y , that secures the fixture,  Z , to the top coat
of pull depending on the equipment used. A change in rate of pull or load (Fig. 1).
1).
fixture size will result in variation of results. 8.3.2
8.3.2 Designat
Designatee coh
cohesi
esive
ve fra
fractu
ctures
res by the lay layers
ers wit
within
hin
7.7 The test is completed when the fixture
fixture is detached from which they occur as  B ,  C ,  D,  Y , etc., and the visually estimated
the sub
substr
strate,
ate, pass/fail
pass/fail test criteria
criteria is met or max
maximu
imum
m pul
pulll percent of each.
strength for the instrument is reached. For pass/fail tests, the 8.3.3 Design
Designate
ate adhesive fractures
fractures and glue failure by the
test may be terminated at any point after the test criterion has interfaces at which they occur as  A/B ,  B/C ,  C/D,  Y/Z , etc., and
been reached. the visually estimated percent of each.
8.4 A result that appears to be significantly
significantly different
different from
7.8 Record informatio
information
n required for the Report (see Section
other results (see repeatability limits in 10.1.1
in  10.1.1)) may be caused
9).
by a mist
mistakeake in test proproced
cedure
ure per
perfor
forman
mance,
ce, rec
record
ording
ing or
7.9 If a plu
plug
g of material
material is det
detach
ached,
ed, label and store the calculating. If any of these are not the cause, then examine the
fixture for qualification of the failed surface in accordance with experimental
exper imental circumstances
circumstances surro
surroundin
unding g this run. If an irregu
irregu--
8.3..
8.3 lar result can be attributed to an experimental cause, drop this
result
result fro
fromm the analysis.
analysis. How
Howeve everr, do not discard
discard a resresult
ult
7.10
7.10 Rep
Report
ort any dep
departu
artures
res fro
from
m the pro
proced
cedure
ure such as unless
unl ess ther
theree are val
valid
id non
nonstat
statisti
istical
cal rea
reason
sonss for doing so or
possible misalignment, hesitations in the force application, etc.
unless
unl ess the resresult
ult is a stat
statisti
istical
cal out
outlier
lier.. Valid non
nonstat
statisti
istical
cal
reasons for dropping results include alignment of the apparatus
8. Calc
Calculat
ulation
ion or Inter
Interpre
pretati
tation
on of Resul
Results
ts
that is not normal to the surface, poor definition of the area
8.1 If ins
instru
tructed
cted by the ins
instru
trumen
mentt man
manufa
ufactu
cturer
rer,, use the stressed due to improper application of the glue, poorly defined
instrument calibration factors to convert the indicated load for glue lines and boundaries, holidays in the glue caused by voids
each test into the actual load applied. or inclusions, improperly prepared surfaces, improperly scored
8.2 Eith
Either
er use the cali
calibra
bration
tion chart
chart sup
supplie
plied
d by the manu- surfaces, varying the rate of loading during the test, varying the
facturer or compute the relative load applied to each coating rate of loading between tests, and sliding or twisting the fixture
sample as follows: duri
du ring
ng ththee in
initi
itial
al cu
cure
re.. Sc
Scra
ratc
tche
hedd or sc scor
ored
ed sa
samp
mple
less ma
mayy
contain stress concentrations leading to premature fractures.
 X   5 4 F  / π d 2 (1 )
8.5 Doc
Docume
ument nt any tes
testt whe
where
re the loa
load
d limi
limitt of the test
testing
ing
where: equipment is reached.
 X    = gre
greates
atestt mea
mean
n pul
pull-o
l-offf load applied
applied during
during a pas
pass/f
s/fail
ail 8.6 Proto
Protocol
col 1 (Test to fracture)
fracture) see  Fig. 2 Flow
2  Flow Chart.
test,
unitsorofthe
MPapull-off
(psi), load achieved at fracture. Both have 8.6.1 Unless otherwise
otherwise agreed to between the purchaser
purchaser and
sellerr, di
selle disr
sreg
egar
ard
d tes
testt re
resu
sults
lts wi
with
th vi
visu
sual
ally
ly es
estim
timate
ated
d gl
glue
ue
F    = act
actual
ual load
load applied
applied to the test surfac
surfacee as det
determ
ermine
ined
d in
fracture greater than 1/4 of the loading area. Use caution when
8.1,, and
8.1
using data from tests that include any visible glue fracture or

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  D4541 − 17

FIG. 2 Flow Chart

where the equipment capacity is exceeded for analysis as the the te

the test
st pr
proc
oced
edur
uree an
and
d mamakeke ad
adju
justm
stmen
ents
ts to re
redu
duce
ce gl
glue
ue
results may not be statistically relevant. fracture or indicate the test is indeterminate.
NOTE 9—Any amount of glue fracture will result in a reduction of the
8.7 Proto
Protocol
col 2 (Pass/fail
(Pass/fail test), see Fig.
see  Fig. 2 Flow
2  Flow Chart.
maximum test load measured by the testing apparatus
8.7.1 The test can be terminated after the minimum
minimum criterion NOTE 10—When subjected to pull-off loads, an elastomeric coating may
has been met. elongate, and if the elongation or strain is sufficient, then the failure can
8.7.2
8.7.2 A test is pas
passin
sing
g whe
when n the maximum
maximum load applied
applied is be induced by a simulated peel type load starting at the edges of the scored
greater than or equal to the pass/fail criteria. sample. To reduce this effect proper scoring and test fixture alignment
techniques
techniques should be emplo
employed.
yed. As well, low loading rates shoulshouldd be
8.7.3 If the maximum load is less than the pass/fail criteria,
criteria, avoided to reduce the time the elastomeric coating is under stress. These
the test is either a failing test or an indeterminate test due to factors do not preclude pull-off strength testing of elastomeric materials
glue fracture. A test result is indeterminate when there is a but should be noted when evaluating results.
visible amount of glue fracture (visibly detectable glue fracture
is defined as glue failure of 5 % or more of the loading area) 9. Repor
Reportt
that occurred during the test and the maximum load is less than 9.1 Report the following
following information:
information:
the pass/fail criteria. An indeterminate test may be redone to 9.1.1 Date, test location, testing
testing agent,
determine a passing or failing result. If the test is redone, and 9.1.2 Brief description
description of the general
general nature of the test, such
glue fracture persists at a load below the test criteria, review as, field or laboratory testing, generic type of coating, etc.

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  D4541 − 17

9.1.3
9.1 .3 Tempe
Temperatrature
ure and relrelativ
ativee hum
humidi
idity
ty and any oth other
er TABLE 1 Adhesion Testing Method B, Pull-Off Strength (psi )
pertinent environmental conditions during the test period. Repeatability Reproducibility
Repeatability Reproducibility
9.1.4 Descrip
Description
tion of the apparatus used, including:
including: appara- Coating
Coating Avera
Average
ge Standard Standard
Limit Limit
Deviation Deviation
tus man
manufaufactu
cturer
rer and mod
model el num
numberber,, las
lastt cali
calibra
bratio
tion
n dat
date,
e, x̄¯
x sr sR r R
loading
loadin g fixture type and dimensions,
dimensions, and bearin
bearing g ring type and B 1195 278 330 777 925
dimensions. C 549 109 117 305 326
D 1212
12 412 483 1155 1351
9.1.
9.1.55 De
Descr
scrip
iptio
tion
n of th
thee te
test
st sy
syste
stem,
m, if po poss
ssib
ible,
le, by th thee E 1385 192 276 537 774
indexing scheme outlined in 8.3
in 8.3 including:
 including: product identity and Coating
Coating Avera
Averagege
  Repeatability Reproducibility
Limit Limit
generic type for each coat and any other information supplied,
x̄¯
x r % of average R % of average
and the substrate identity (thickness, type, orientation, etc.).
B 1195 777 69.1 925 77.4
9.1.6 Glue used and cure time before before test. C 549 305 55.6 326 59.0
D 1212 1155 95.3 1351 111.5
9.1.7 Method used used to secure the loading fixture during during glue
E 1385 537 38.8 774 55.9
cure, if any. Avg. 64.7 76.0
9.1.8
9.1 .8 Rate of pull.
pull.
9.1.9 Test results.
9.1.9.
9.1 .9.1
1 Deta
Detailed
iled test res
results
ults as des
descri
cribed
bed in   Fig. 2,2,   Flow
Chart.
NOTE   11—Whe
11—When n tes
testin
ting
g in a spe
specifi
cificc loc
locatio
ation,
n, the hig
highes
hestt res
result
ultss material were included in the statistical analysis. Practice  E691
obtained may be the most representative. The most common errors made was followed for the design and analysis of the data; the details
during the testing process lead to artificially lower results, typically not are given in Research Report No. RR:D01-1147.
higher results. Characterizing a test area based on an apparent low or high
individual result should be done with caution. NOTE 13—The pull-off strength of two of the coatings, identified during
the round robin as Coating A and Coating F, exceeded the measurement
9.1.9.2
9.1.9. 2 If correctio
corrections
ns of the res
results
ults have been made, or if  limits of the testers with the accessories available at the time of testing,
certain values have been omitted such as the lowest or highest and were theref
therefore
ore elimin
eliminated
ated from the statistical analysis.
values or others, reasons for the adjustments and criteria used.
9.1.9.3
9.1.9 .3 For any test where scoring was employed,
employed, indicate it 10.1.1   Repeatability— TwoTwo test results obtained within one
laboratory shall be judged not equivalent if they differ by more
by pl
plac
acin
ing
g a fo
foot
otno
note
te su
supe
pers
rscr
crip
iptt be
besi
side
de eac
each
h da
datata po
poin
intt
than
than ththee “r ” va
valu
luee fo
forr th
that
at mamate
teri
rial
al;; “r ” is ththee in
inte
terv
rval
al
affected and a footnote to that effect with information of the
representing the critical difference between two test results for
scoring apparatus used at the bottom of each page on which
the same material, obtained by the same operator using the
such data appears. Note any other deviations from the proce-
same equipment on the same day in the same laboratory.
dure.
10.1.1.1
10.1. 1.1 Repeatab
Repeatability
ility limits are listed in  Tables 1-5. 1-5.
9.1.9.4
9.1.9 .4 Note any other deviations from the procedure.
procedure.
10.1.2   Reproducibility— Two Two test results shall be judged not
NOTE   12—Us
12—Usee caucautio
tion
n wit
with
h sta
statis
tistica
ticall ana
analys
lysis
is of dat
data,
a, suc
such
h as equivalent if they differ by more than the “ R” value for that
averaging of results, for test results that include glue failure, termination
material;
materia l; “ R” is the int
interv
ervalal rep
repres
resent
enting
ing the dif differ
ferenc
encee be-
of the test, or exceeding the capacity of the test equipment. The reported
load for these types of test results are not representative of the maximum tween
tw een twtwoo te
test
st re
resu
sults
lts fo
forr th
thee sa
same
me ma mate
teri
rial,
al, ob
obta
tain
ined
ed by
load capacity of the coating tested. different operators using different equipment in different labo-
ratories.
10. Pre
Precision and Bias5
cision 10.1.2.1
10.1. 2.1 Reprod
Reproducibili
ucibility
ty limits are listed in Tables
in  Tables 1-5.
1-5.
10.1 The pr
10.1 prec
ecis
isio
ionn of ththis
is te
test
st me
meththod
od is babase
sed
d on an 10.1.3
10.1.3 Any judgment
judgment in acco accorda
rdance
nce with the these
se two stastate-
te-
interla
inte rlabor
borato
atory
ry stu
study
dy of Test Met Methodhod D45
D454141 con
conduc
ducted
ted in ments would have an approximate 95 % probability of being
6
2006, using the parameters of Test Method D4541-09. Ana- correct.
lysts
lys ts fro
from
m sev
seven
en lab
labora
orator
tories
ies test
tested
ed six difdiffer
ferent
ent coa
coating
tingss
10.2   Bias— At
At the time of the study, there was no accepted
applied to  ⁄ 4  in. thick hot-rolled carbon steel plates using five
 1
reference material suitable for determining the bias for this test
differ
different
ent adh
adhesi
esion
on tes
testers
ters.. Eve
Every
ry “tes
“testt res
result
ult”” rep
repres
resent
entss an
method, therefore no statement is being made.
individual determination. In order to standardize and balance
the data, any pull which exceeded the tester’s upper limit with 10.3 The precision statement
statement was determ
determined
ined through
through sta-
the available accessories at the time of testing was eliminated tistical examination of 394 results, produced by analysts from
from the statistical analysis. Any pull in which there was 50 % seven
sev en lab
labora
orator
tories,
ies, on foufourr coa
coatin
tings,
gs, usi
using
ng five dif differ
ferent
ent
or more glue fracture was also eliminated from the statistical inst
in stru
rume
mentnts.
s. Di
Difffe
fere
rent
nt cocoati
ating
ngss we
were
re us
used
ed as a me mean
anss to
analysis. If four valid pulls were obtained from one operator achievee a range of pull-o
achiev pull-offf streng
strengths
ths covering the opera
operating
ting
for a given material, the fourth was eliminated and the first range of all the instruments.
three valid replicate test results (from one operator) for each 10.3.1
10.3. 1 Results obtained
obtained by the same operator
operator using instru-
ments from the same Method should be considered suspect if 
they differ
differ in percent relative by more than the Intral
Intralaborat
aboratory
ory
5 Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may
values given in Table
in  Table 6.
6.  Triplicate results obtained by different
be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:D01-1147. Contact ASTM Customer
operators using instruments from the same Method should be
Service at service@astm.org.
6
Scotch Weld
Weld 420, available from 3M, Adhesives, Coatings and Sealers Div., 3M considered suspect if they differ in percent relative by more
Center, St. Paul, MN 55144, was used in the Interlaboratory Study round robin. than the Interlaboratory values given in  Table 6. 6.

Copyright by ASTM Int'l (all rights reserved); Mon Jul 23 15:14:50 EDT 2018
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  D4541 − 17
TABLE 2 Adhesion Testing Method C, Pull-Off Strength (psi ) TABLE 4 Adhesion Testing Method E, Pull-Off Strength (psi )
Repeatability Reproducibility Repeatability Reproducibility
Repeatability Reproducibility Repeatability Reproducibility
Coating
Coating Avera
Average
ge Standard Standard Coating
Coating Avera
Average
ge Standard Standard
Limit Limit Limit Limit
Deviation Deviation Deviation Deviation
x̄¯
x sr sR r R x̄¯
x sr sR r SR
B 1974 261 324 732 907 B 2210 173 215 483 601
C 1221 136 548 382 1535 C 1120 115 155 321 433
D 2110 252 316 706 886 D 2481
24 361 422 1011 1181
E 2012
20 239 359 669 1004 E 2449 173 198 485 555
  Repeatability Reproducibility   Repeatability Reproducibility
Coating
Coating Avera
Averagege Coating
Coating Avera
Averagege
Limit Limit Limit Limit
x̄¯
x r % of average R % of average x̄¯
x r % of average R % of average

B 1974 732 37.1 907 45.9 B 2210 483 21.9 601 27.2
C 1221 382 31.3 1535 125.7 C 1120 321 28.7 433 38.7
D 2110 706 33.5 886 42.0 D 2481 1011 40.7 1181 47.6
E 2012 669 33.3 1004 49.9 E 2449 485 19.8 555 22.7
Avg. 30.4 70.5 Avg. 27.8 34.1

TABLE 3 Adhesion Testing Method D, Pull-Off Strength (psi ) TABLE 5 Adhesion Testing Method F, Pull-Off Strength ( psi )
Repeatability Reproducibility Repeatability Reproducibility
Repeatability Reproducibility Repeatability Reproducibility
Coating
Coating Avera
Average
ge Standard Standard Coating
Coating Avera
Average
ge Standard Standard
Limit Limit Limit Limit
Deviation Deviation Deviation Deviation
x̄¯
x sr sR r SR x̄¯
x sr sR r SR
B 2458 146 270 408 755 B 2070 102 125 287 351
C 1232 31 116 87 324 C 1106 60 108 169 304
D 2707 155 233 434 651 D 2368 124 160 347 449
E 2354 163 273 456 764 E 2327 217 237 609 664
  Repeatability Reproducibility   Repeatability Reproducibility
Coating
Coating Avera
Averagege Coating
Coating Avera
Averagege
Limit Limit Limit Limit
x̄¯
x r % of average R % of average x̄¯
x r % of average R % of average

B
C 2
14
25
38
2 40
88
7 16
7..6
1 7
35
25
4 3
20
6..7
3 B
C 200
11 76
0 2
18
679 1
13
5..9
3 3
35
01
4 1
27
7..0
5
D 2707 434 16.0 651 24.0 D 2368 347 14.7 449 19.0
E 2354 456 19.4 764 32.5 E 2327 609 26.2 664 28.5
Avg. 14.8 28.4 Avg. 17.5 23.0

11.. Keywo
11 Keywords
rds
11.1 adhesi
11.1 adhesion;
on; coatings; field; metal subst
substrates;
rates; paint; por-
table; pull-off strength; tensile test

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  D4541 − 17
TABLE 6 Precision of Adhesion Pull-Off Measurements (averaged
across coating types for each instrument)
instrument)
Maximum Maximum
Intralaboratory Recommended Interlaboratory Recommended
Difference, % Difference, %
Method B 64.7 Method B 76.0
Method C 33.8 Method C 65.9
Method D 14.8 Method D 28.4
Method E 27.8 Method E 34.1
Method F 17.5 Method F 23.0

ANNEXES

(Mandatory Information)

A1. FIXED-ALIGN
FIXED-ALIGNMENT
MENT ADHESION
ADHESION TESTER TYPE II (TEST METHOD B)

A1.1   Apparatus: A1.2.1

A1.2 .1 Cente
Centerr th
thee be
bear
arin
ing
g ri
ring
ng on ththee co
coat
atin
ing
g su
surf
rface
ace
A1.1.1 This is a fixed-alignment portable
portable tester, as shown
shown in concentric with the loading fixture. Turn the hand wheel or nut
Fig. A1.1.
A1.1.7,8 of the tester counterclock
counterclockwise,
wise, lowering
lowering the grip so that it slips
under the head of the loading fixture.
NOTE A1.1—Precision data for Type II instruments shown in   Table 6
were obtained using the devices described in Fig.
in  Fig. A1.1.
A1.1. A1.2.2 Align or shim the three instrument swivel pads of the
tripod base so that the instrument will pull perpendicularly to
A1.1.2   The
The test
tester
er is com
compriprised
sed of det
detach
achabl
ablee alu
alumin
minumum
loading fixtures having a flat conic base that is 20 mm (0.8 in.) the surface at the bearin
bearing
g ring. The annular ring can be used on
flexible substrates.
in di
diam
amete
eterr on on
onee en
endd fo
forr sec
secur
urin
ing
g to th
thee co
coat
atin
ing,g, an
andd a
circu
circula
larr T-
T-bo
bolt
lt he
headad on ththee ot
othe
herr en
end,
d, a cecent
ntra
rall gr
grip
ip fo
for 
r  A1.2.3 Take up the slack between the various members
members and
engaging the loading fixture that is forced away from a tripod  slide the dragging (force) indicator located on the tester to zero.
base by the interaction of a hand wheel (or nut), and a coaxial A1.2.4
A1. 2.4 Fir
Firmly
mly hold the ins
instru
trumen
mentt wit
with
h one hand.
hand. Do not
bolt
bo lt co
connnnect
ected
ed ththrrou
ough
gh a se seri
ries
es of bebelle
llevil
ville
le wa
washsher
ers,
s, or  allow the base to move or slide during the test. With the other
springs in later models, that acts as both a torsion relief and a hand,
han d, tur
turn
n the hand whewheel
el clo
clockw
ckwise
ise usi
using
ng as smo
smooth
oth and
spring that displaces a dragging indicator with respect to a constant motion as possible. Do not jerk or exceed a stress rate
scale. of 150 psi/s (1 MPa/s) that is attained by allowing in excess of 
A1.1.3 The force is indicated by measuring the maximum
A1.1.3 7 s/7 MPa (7 s/1000 psi), stress. If the 14 or 28 MPa (2000 or
spring displacement when loaded. Care should be taken to see 4000 psi) models are used, the hand wheel is replaced with a
that substrate bending does not influence its final position or nut requiring a wrench for tightening. The wrench must be used
the actual force delivered by the spring arrangement. in a plane parallel to the substrate so that the loading fixture
will not be removed by a shearing force or misalignment, thus
A1.1.4
A1.1.4 The devices are available
available in four ranges:
ranges: From 3.5,
negatin
neg ating
g the res
result
ults.
s. The max
maximu
imumm loa
loadd mus
mustt be rea
reache
ched
d
7.0, 14, and 28 MPa (0 to 500, 0 to 1000, 0 to 2000, and 0 to within about 100 s.
4000 psi).
A1.2.5 The pulling
A1.2.5 pulling for
force
ce app
applied
lied to the loading
loading fixt
fixture
ure is
A1.2   Procedure: increased to a maximum or until the system fails at its weakest
locus.
locus. Upo
Uponn fra
fractur
cture,
e, the sca
scale
le will rise slig
slightl
htly
y, whi
while
le the
7 draggi
dragging
ng ind
indicat
icator
or reta
retains
ins the app
appare
arent
nt loa
load.
d. The app
appara
aratus
tus
The sole source of supply of the Elcometer, Model 106, adhesion tester known
to the committee at this time is Elcometer Instruments, Ltd., Edge Lane, Droylston, scale
scale ind
indicat
icates
es an app
approx
roximat
imatee loa
load
d dir
directl
ectlyy in pou
pounds
nds per
Manchester M35 6UB, United Kingdom, England. square inch, but may be compared to a calibration curve.
8
If you are aware of alternative suppliers, please provide this information to
ASTM Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consideration at a meeting A1.2.6 Record the highest
highest value attained by readin
reading
g along
of the responsible technical committee,1 which you may attend the bottom of the dragging indicator.

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  D4541 − 17

(a)

(b)

FIG. A1.1 Photograph (a) and Schematic (b) of Type II, Fixed Alignment Pull-Off Tester

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  D4541 − 17

A2. SELF-ALIGNIN
SELF-ALIGNING
G ADHESION TESTER
TESTER TYPE III (TEST METHOD C)

A2.1   Apparatus: A2.1.5 The testers are available in three standard

standard working
ranges: 0 to 10 MPa (0 to 1500 psi), 0 to 15 MPa (0 to 2250
A2.1.1
A2.1 .1 This
This is a se
self
lf-a
-alig
ligni
ning
ng te
teste
sterr, as sh
show
own
n in   Fig.
9,8 psi), 0 to 20 MPa (0 to 3000 psi). Special loading fixtures
A2.1..
A2.1
shaped to test tubular sections are available.
NOTE  A2.1—Precision data for Type III instruments shown in Table
in  Table 6
were obtained using the devices described in Fig.
in  Fig. A2.1.
A2.1. A2.2   Procedure:
A2.1.2 Loa
A2.1.2 Loadd is app
applied
lied through
through the center of the loading
loading A2.2.1 Follo
Follow
w the gener
general
al procedures
procedures described in Sections
fixture by a hydraulic piston and pin. The diameter of the piston 6  and
 and 7
 7..  Procedures specific to this instrument are described in
bore is sized so that the area of the bore is equal to the net area this section
section..
of the loading fixture. Therefore, the pressure reacted by the A2.2.2 Inser
Insertt a decreas
decreased
ed TFE-fluorocarb
TFE-fluorocarbon on plug into the
loading fixture is the same as the pressure in the bore and is loading fixture until the tip protrudes from the surface of the
transmitted directly to a pressure gauge. loadin
loading
g fixt
fixture
ure.. Whe
Whenn app
applyin
lying
g glu
gluee to the load
loading
ing fixt
fixture
ure,,
A2.1.3 The apparatus
A2.1.3 apparatus is comprised of: a loading fixture,
fixture, 19 avoid getting glue on the plug. Remove plug after holding the
mm (0 (0.7
.75
5 in
in.)
.) ou
outs
tsid
idee di
diam
amete
eterr, 3 mm (0(0.1
.125
25 in
in.)
.) in
insi
side
de loading fixture in place for 10 s.
diameter, hydraulic piston and pin by which load is applied to A2.2.3 Ensur
Ensuree that the black needle of the tester is reading
the loading fixture, hose, pressure gauge, threaded plunger and zero. Connect a test loading fixture to the head and increase the
handle. pressure by turning the handle clockwise until the pin protrudes
from the loading fixture. Decrease pressure to zero and remove
A2.1.4 The force is ind
A2.1.4 indicat
icated
ed by the max
maximu
imumm hyd
hydrau
raulic
lic
pressure as displayed on the gauge, since the effective areas of  the test loading fixture.
the piston bore and the loading fixture are the same. A2.2.4 Conne
Connect
ct the head to the loadin
loading
g fixture to be tested,
by pu
pulli
lling
ng ba
back
ck th
thee sn
snap
ap-o
-onn ri
ring
ng,, pu
push
shin
ing
g th
thee he
head
ad an
and
d
releasing the snap-on ring. Ensure the tester is held normal to
the surface to be tested and that the hose is straight.
9
The sole source of supply of the Hate Mark VII adhesion tester known to the
committee at this time is Hydraulic Adhesion Test Equipment, Ltd., 629 Inlet Rd., A2.2.5 Incre
Increase
ase the pressu
pressure
re slowly by turnin
turning
g the handle
North Palm Beach, FL 33408. clockwise until either the maximum load or fracture is reached.

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  D4541 − 17

(a)

(b)

FIG. A2.1 Photograph (a) and Schematic (b) of Type III, Self-Alignment Tester

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  D4541 − 17

A3. SELF-ALIGNME
SELF-ALIGNMENT
NT ADHESION TESTER
TESTER TYPE IV (TEST METHOD D)

A3.1   Apparatus: A3.2.1 Follo

Follow
w the gener
general
al procedures
procedures described in Sections
A3.1.1 This is a self-al
A3.1.1 self-aligning
igning automated
automated tester,
tester, which may 6  and
 and 7
 7.. Procedures specific to Type IV testers are described in
have a self-contained pressure source and has a control module the following section.

that co
that cont
ntro
rols
ls a chchoi
oice
ce of difdiffe
fere
rent
nt lo
load
ad ra
rang
ngee de
detac
tachi
hing
ng A3.2.2 Adher
Adheree a loadin
loading
g fixture to the coating based on the
assemblies, or pistons. It is shown in  Fig. A3.1.
A3.1. epoxy manufacturer’s instructions, employing either a cut-off 
NOTE  A3.1—Precision data for Type IV instruments shown in  Table 6 ring or glue mask to reproducibly define the area being tested.
were obtained using the devices described in Fig.
in  Fig. A3.1.
A3.1. On lar
larger
ger size
sized
d loa
loadin
ding
g fixt
fixture
ures,
s, simp
simply
ly wip
wipee awa
awayy exc
excess
ess
A3.1.2 The apparatus
A3.1.2 apparatus is comprised
comprised of: ( 1) a loading fixture, epoxy with a cotton tipped applicator or rag.
(2) a detaching assembly, or piston, ( 3) one of several control
A3.2.3 Place the piston over the loading fixture
fixture and gently
modules, and (4) a pressurized air source.
thread the reaction plate (top of piston) onto the loading fixture.
A3.1.3 The loading fixtures
A3.1.3 fixtures are availab
available
le on many different
different
A3.2.4 Attach the appropriate
appropriate pneumatic hoses and ensur
ensuree
sizes (3 to 75 mm) based on the particulars
particulars of the system being
that the control module has an air supply of at least 0.67 Mpa
tested.
tested. The sta
standa
ndard
rd loading
loading fixt
fixture
ure is 12.
12.55 mm (0.(0.5
5 in) in
(100 psi) as read on the supply gauge. Zero the Piston Pressure
diameter. The face of the loading fixture can be rough, smooth,
gauge/display.
curved, machined, etc.
A3.2.5 Ensure
A3.2.5 Ensure that the Rate Valv
alvee is clo
closed
sed (cl
(clock
ockwis
wisee
A3.1.4 The pis
A3.1.4 piston
tonss are als
also
o ava
availab
ilable
le in sev
severa
erall dif
differ
ferent
ent
finger tight) and then press and hold the Run button. Slowly
sizes, or load ranges. It is recommended that a piston is chosen
open the Rate Valve (counterclockwise) and monitor the Piston
so th
that
at th
thee mi
midp
dpoi
oint
nt of ththee ra
rang
ngee is clo
close
se to th
thee su
susp
spec
ected
ted
tensile strength of the coating to be tested. This will provide the Pressure gauge/display to obtain a rate of pressure increase of 
less than 1 MPa/s (100 psi/s) yet allowing for the entire test to
most forgiveness in errors of assumed coating strength.
be complete within 100 s. When the loading fixture detaches
A3.1.5
A3. 1.5 Sev
Severa
erall mod
models
els of con
contro
troll mod
module
uless are ava
availab
ilable.
le. from the surface or the required pressure is attained, release the
The digital models may include optional accessories allowing Run button.
for features such as wireless real-time transmission of pull-tests
via Bluetooth and your PC, LabVIEW-created software, USB A3.2.6 Ope
A3.2.6 Openn the Rate Valvalvee eve
even
n fur
further
ther (co
(count
unterc
erclock
lock--
camera attachment to photo document your pulls, and com- wise) to relieve the residual pressure so the loading fixture can
puter generated reporting capabilities. be removed from the piston to prepare for the next test.

A3.1.6
A3.1 .6 The
The prpress
essur
uriz
ized
ed air sosour
urce
ce ma
may
y be (1) a self
lf-- A3.2.7 Record both
both the maximum pressure
pressure attained and the
contained miniature air cylinder for maximum portability, ( 2) specific piston used. Convert the maximum Piston Pressure to
shop (bottled) air, or ( 3) air from an automated pump. the load applied to the coating using the conversion charts or
set the specific testing parameters within the software to have
A3.2   Procedure: this step completed automatically.

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  D4541 − 17

(a)

FIG. A3.1 Photograph

Photograph (a) and Schematic of Piston (b) of Type IV Self-A
Self-Alignme
lignment
nt Adhesion Tester
Tester

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  D4541 − 17

A4. SELF-ALIGNIN
SELF-ALIGNING
G ADHESION TESTER
TESTER TYPE V (TEST METHOD E)

A4.1   Apparatus: A4.2   Procedure:

A4.1.1
A4.1 .1 This
This is a se
self
lf-a
-alig
ligni
ning
ng te
teste
sterr, as sh
show
own
n in   Fig. A4.2.1 Follo
Follow
w the gener
general
al procedures
procedures described in Sections
10,8
A4.1..
A4.1 6  and
 and 7
 7..  Procedures specific to Type V Testers are described in
NOTE
were  A4.1—Precision
obtained data fordescribed
using the devices Type V instruments
as “Manual”shown
in  Fig.inA4.1.
  Table
A4.1 . 6 this section
section..
A4.1.2 A self-a
A4.1.2 self-alignin
ligning
g spherical loading
loading fixture head is used A4.2.2
A4.2 .2 En
Ensu
sure
re th
thee pr
pres
essu
sure
re re
relie
lieff va
valv
lvee on th
thee pu
pump
mp is
by this tester. Load evenly distributes pulling force over the completely open. Push the actuator handle completely down
surface being tested, ensuring a perpendicular, balanced pull- into the actuator assembly.
off. A loading fixture of 20 mm (0.78 in.) is equal to the area
A4.2.3 Place the actuator assembly
assembly over the loading fixture
of the pos
positio
ition
n bor
boree in the actu
actuato
atorr. The
Theref
refore
ore,, the pre
pressu
ssure
re
head and attach the quick coupling to the loading fixture. Close
reacted by the loading fixture is the same as the pressure in the
actuator and is transmitted directly to the pressure gauge. The the pressure relief valve on the pump. Select the appropriate
tester performs automatic conversion calculations for the 50 loadin
loading
g fixt
fixture
ure size on the dis
displa
play
y and then press the zerzero
o
mm (1.97 in.) loading fixtures and other common sizes of 10 button.
and 14 mm (0.39 in. and 0.55 in. respectively). A4.2.4 Pri
A4.2.4 Prime
me the pump by pum pumpin
ping
g the handle
handle unt
until
il the
A4.1.3 The apparatus
A4.1.3 apparatus is comprised of: a loading fixture,
fixture, 10 displa
dis played
yed rea
readin
ding
g app
approa
roache
chess the pri
primin
mingg pre
pressu
ssure
re as ex-
to 50 mm (0.39 and 1.97 in. respectively) diameter, hydraulic plained in the instruction manual. Return the pump handle to
actuator by which the load is applied to the loading fixture, its full upright position and then complete a single stroke at a
pressure gauge with LCD display, and hydraulic pump. uniform rate of no more than 1 MPa/s (150 psi/s) as shown on
A4.1.4
A4. 1.4 The dis
display
play on the pre
pressu
ssure
re gau
gauge
ge ind
indicat
icates
es the the display until the actuator pulls the loading fixture from the
maximum force and the rate of pull. surface.
A4.1.5 The tester is available with accessories
A4.1.5 accessories for finishes A4.2.5 Immed
Immediately
iately following
following the pull, open the press
pressure
ure
on plastics, metals, and wood. Special loading fixtures, typi- relief valve on the pump to release the pressure. The display
cally 10 mm (0.39 in.) and 14 mm (0.55 in.) are available for will maintain the maximum pressure reading. Record this pull
use on curved surfaces and when higher pull-off pressures are offf pre
of pressu
ssure
re into the tes
tester’
ter’ss mem
memory
ory and mar
mark
k the loa
loadin
ding
g
required. fixture for future qualitative analysis.
10
The sole sou
source
rce of sup
supply
ply of the Pos
PosiT
iTest
est Pull-Off
Pull-Off Tester
Tester kno
known
wn to the A4.2.6 A versio
version
n of this tester is available
available with an automatic
automatic
committee at this time is DeFelsko Corporation, 802 Proctor Avenue, Ogdensburg, hydraulic pump.
NY 13669 USA.

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  D4541 − 17

(a)

(b)
FIG. A4.1 Photograph (a) and Schematic (b) of Type V, Self-Aligning Tester
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  D4541 − 17

A5. SELF-ALIGNIN
SELF-ALIGNING
G ADHESION TESTER
TESTER TYPE VI (TEST METHOD F)

A5.1   Apparatus: A5.2.2

A5. 2.2 Ens
Ensure
ure that the pressure
pressure in the pull mech
mechani
anism
sm is
A5.1.1
A5.1.1 This is a self-a
self-alignin
ligning
g tester, as shown in Fig.
in  Fig. A5.1.
A5.1. released by opening the valve at the bottom of the cylinder.
NOTE  A5.1—Precision data for Type VI instruments shown in  Table 6 Turn
Tu rn the dra
draggi
gging
ng indicator
indicator to zer
zero
o in lin
linee wit
with
h the gauge
were obtained using the devices described in Fig.
in  Fig. A5.1.
A5.1. indicator needle.
A5.1.2 The self
A5.1.2 self-al
-align
igning
ing test
testing
ing hea
head
d use
usess fou
fourr ind
indepe
epen-
n- A5.2.3 Att
A5.2.3 Attach
ach the self
self-ali
-aligni
gning
ng test hea
head
d to the hyd
hydrau
raulic
lic
dently operated feet to ensure that the pull stress on the loading cable mechanism
mechanism using the quick release connector on the side
fixture is evenly distributed independently of the shape of the of the test head. Return the crank handle to the start position
substrate or the angle of the loading fixture to the surface. See and ensure that the four pistons of the self-aligning head are
Fig. A5.1 level by pushing the head against a flat surface.
A5.1.3 The apparatus
A5.1.3 apparatus comprises
comprises a crank handle
handle pull mecha-
A5.2.4 Place the rel
A5.2.4 releva
evant
nt sup
suppor
portt rin
ring
g ove
overr the loa
loadin
ding
g
nism with a hydraulic cable mechanism, a self-aligning test
fixture.
fixture. A suppo
support
rt ring is not required
required for 25 mm, 50 mm, or 70
head rated at 6.3 kN and loading fixtures.
mm diameter loading fixtures or for 50 mm square loading
A5.1
A5 .1.4
.4 A ra
rang
ngee of lo
load
adin
ingg fix
fixtu
ture
res,
s, fr
from
om 2.
2.8
8 to 70 mm fixtures.
diameter is available. The 20 mm diameter loading fixtures are
directly connected to the test head by means of a quick release A5.2.5 Attach the test head to the loading
A5.2.5 loading fixt
fixture
ure either
either
connector. Other loading fixture sizes are supplied with threads directl
directly
y or usi
using
ng the ada
adapte
pter,
r, whe
where
re app
approp
ropriat
riate.
e. Clos
Closee the
machined to allow connection to the self-aligning test head valve.
using an adapter. Loading fixtures with diameters in the range A5.2.6
A5. 2.6 Ens
Ensure
ure that the hydrauli
hydraulicc cab
cable
le mec
mechan
hanism
ism is not
2.8 to 5.7 mm are used with a micro self-aligning test head pulled tight. Hold the pull mechanism in one hand and operate
rated at 1 kN. the crank with the other using a smooth and regular motion to
A5.1.5 The force applied to the loading fixture is displayed
A5.1.5 displayed ensuree that the force is applie
ensur applied
d evenly until the desire
desired
d value is
on a hydraulic pressure gauge with a dragging indicator that reached or the fracture occurs.
shows the maximum reading at the point where the loading
A5.2.7 Immed
Immediately
iately following
following the comple
completion
tion of the pull,
fixture is removed from the surface. The gauge carries both PSI
open the valve to release any residual pressure and return the
and MPa values on two scales.
crank handle
handle to the start position. The unit is now ready for the
A5.2   Procedure: next pull.
A5.2.1
A5.2. 1 Follow
Following ing the gener
general
al procedures described
described in Sec- A5.2.8 Note the value indicated by the dragg
dragging
ing indicator
tions   6   and   7,   proced
procedure
uress spe
specific
cific to Type VI test
testers
ers are and mark the loading fixture for further analysis as described in
described in the following section. Section   8.
Section

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  D4541 − 17

(a)

(b)
FIG. A5.1 Photograph (a) and Schematic (b) of Type VI, Self-Aligning Tester

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  D4541 − 17

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Comm
Committ
ittee
ee D0
D011 ha
hass id
iden
enti
tified
fied th
thee lo
loca
catio
tion
n of sel
select
ected
ed ch
chan
ange
gess to th
this
is st
stan
anda
dard
rd sin
since
ce th
thee las
lastt is
issu
suee
(D4541-09 1) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved August 1, 2017.)
ɛ

(1)  TBD

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validity
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respon sible technical
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