ASTM D6241 Puncture Testing for Geotextiles

ASTM D6241 is a standard used to measure the force required to puncture a geotextile or geotextile-related product. Geotextiles are used in a variety of applications, including for civil engineering to strengthen soil for roads, embankments, canals and more. They are also used widely in residential neighborhoods for man-made ponds and landscape sculpting.

ASTM D6241

For this test method, a geotextile test specimen is clamped with grips without tension between circular plates on a compression or tensile testing machine. A force is exerted against the center of the unsupported portion of the test specimen by a steel plunger attached to the load indicator. The relatively large size of the plunger provides a multidirectional force on the geotextile until a break occurs. The maximum force is the value of puncture strength.

Testing Procedure

Before you begin testing, choose a clamping apparatus consisting of concentric plates with an internal diameter of 150 mm (5.9 in.), capable of clamping the test specimen without slippage. An external diameter is suggested to be 250 mm (9.8 in.). Next, select the load range of the tensile testing machine so that the breaking point occurs between 10 and 90% of the full-scale load.

Now center and secure the test specimen between the holding plates, making sure that the sample extends to or beyond the outer edges of the clamping plates. Mark the test specimen along the inside circumference of the holding container. Begin testing at a speed of 50 mm/min (approximately 2 in/min) until the puncture rod completely ruptures the test specimen. Calculate the average of the puncture strength for all test results

An electromechanical universal testing machine with a clamping or puncture test fixture can be used to test to ASTM D6241. By means of our geotextile testing expertise and modular product design, we will help find the testing solution that is right for you. Give one of our application engineers a call today for help with creating the best budget and testing plan according to ASTM D6241.

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