FAQ

Buying Online from ZwickRoell 

Why can I buy these ZwickRoell products online?

The online shop offers selected standardized configurations for customers with clearly defined testing needs. These products are intended to make ordering faster and easier when a full consultation process is not required.

If expert consultation is required, convenient appointment slots can be scheduled through our online booking tool.

Are these the same ZwickRoell products available through the traditional sales process?

Yes. The shop offers limited, defined configurations of the same ZwickRoell testing solutions you would otherwise purchase through the common sales and consulting process, with the same focus on reliable results, product quality, and support at standard-application-aligned online-only pricing.

Who is the online shop best suited for?

The shop is best suited for customers who know their application, test method, required standard, and basic configuration needs. It is ideal for routine quality control, incoming inspection, education labs, and straightforward standardized testing applications

What should I do if I’m not sure which product or configuration is right for me?

You can easily schedule an appointment through our online booking tool. Simply click here and select one of the open appointment slots.  Our team can help confirm whether the online configuration is suitable or whether your application requires a more customized solution.

When should I contact ZwickRoell instead of ordering online?

Contact us if your application involves unusual specimens, non-standard methods, automation, advanced software workflows, special fixtures, high-throughput testing, or uncertainty about standards, calibration, or configuration.

Can I add calibration or certification services to my order?

Our machines are factory verified to generate reliable test results. If you need an accredited onsite calibration, you can add this option to your shopping cart. 

Is installation or commissioning support available?

Selected online products are intended for streamlined setup or self-commissioning. Installation documentation, videos, and support options are included, and you always have the option to contact ZwickRoell for additional support. 

How much are delivery costs?

Delivery of all products is free of charge.

How is sales tax determined? 

Items in the shop are displayed without sales tax. Sales tax will be added if applicable in your final order confirmation. 

How can I pay for my ordered products? 

We offer invoice payment for all products available through the shop, subject to credit approval.

Calibration, Certification, and Support

What calibration options are available through the shop?

All machines are factory calibrated. Optional calibration services are also offered as add-on options for selected products and regions. In the USA and Canada, A2LA calibration is offered. In Europe Central, ISO and DAkkS calibration options are offered for selected zwickiLine, Cflow, and hardness testing products. Availability depends on the product, region, and selected configuration.

What is A2LA calibration?

A2LA accreditation relates to calibration laboratory competence under ISO/IEC 17025. ZwickRoell calibration laboratories hold numerous international accreditations according to EN ISO/IEC 17025.

What is DAkkS calibration?

DAkkS is the German national accreditation body. A DAkkS-accredited calibration is typically used when a customer needs an accredited, traceable calibration certificate under ISO/IEC 17025 requirements. 

Is UL/CSA certification included?

UL/CSA certification can be requested during the ordering process. Because certification requirements and costs can vary by product and configuration, pricing is quoted separately outside the online checkout process.

Are the machines factory calibrated?

The machines arrive factory verified to generate reliable test results. If you need an accredited onsite calibration, please add this option to your cart. 

What support is available after purchase?

When purchasing your equipment through the online shop, you receive all necessary commissioning materials including installation and operation manuals, how-to video, service hotline support, remote tips-and-tricks training, and optional additional training packages. 

Plastic Film, Packaging, and Adhesive Tape Testing

Is the zwickiLine 500 N suitable for plastic film tensile testing?

Yes. The zwickiLine 500 N is the right solution for ASTM D882 and ISO 527-3 film tensile testing when configured with the appropriate grips, test software, and accessories. Its low-force range is well suited to the typical breaking forces of thin plastic films, making it a strong fit for standardized film testing applications. 

Which standards are commonly used for plastic film tensile testing?

Common standards include ASTM D882 and ISO 527-3 for tensile properties of plastic films and thin sheeting. 

What is ASTM D882?

ASTM D882 is a standard test method for determining the tensile properties of thin plastic sheeting and films. It is commonly used to measure properties such as tensile strength, elongation, and tensile modulus for plastic films less than 1.0 mm, or 0.04 in., thick.

What is ISO 527-3?

ISO 527-3 is an international standard for determining the tensile properties of plastic films and sheets less than 1 mm thick. It is part of the ISO 527 series and is used together with the general testing principles defined in ISO 527-1. For sheets greater than 1 mm thick, ISO refers users to ISO 527-2.

What is the difference between ASTM D882 and ISO 527-3?

ASTM D882 and ISO 527-3 are both used for tensile testing of thin plastic films and sheets, but they are not technically identical. Key differences include specimen geometry, test speed, and strain-measurement requirements. ISO 527-3 allows additional specimen geometries and requires either an extensometer or gauge marks on the specimen, while ASTM D882 has different requirements for strain measurement.

Which standard should I use for plastic film tensile testing?

You should use the standard required by your customer, internal quality procedure, industry specification, or regulatory requirements. ASTM D882 and ISO 527-3 are both used for plastic film tensile testing, but they are not interchangeable in all cases because their specimen geometries, test speeds, and strain-measurement requirements differ. If no standard has been specified, we recommend confirming the required method before testing or comparing results.

What film thickness does ASTM D882 apply to?

ASTM D882 applies to plastic films and thin sheeting less than 1.0 mm, or 0.04 in. thick. For thicker plastic sheet materials, a different standard may be required.

What film thickness does ISO 527-3 apply to?

ISO 527-3 applies to plastic films and sheets less than 1 mm thick. For sheets greater than 1 mm thick, ISO directs users to ISO 527-2.

Can I use the online zwickiLine package for ASTM D882 testing?

The zwickiLine 500 N is commonly used for ASTM D882 film tensile testing, but the correct answer depends on the selected frame height, grips, specimen elongation, and required test setup. If your ASTM D882 method requires a specific grip separation or testing to break on highly extensible material, confirm the configuration before ordering. 

Can I use the online zwickiLine package for ISO 527-3 testing?

The zwickiLine 500 N is commonly used for ISO 527-3 film tensile testing, but the correct answer depends on the selected frame height, grips, specimen elongation, and required test setup. If your ISO 527-3 method requires a specific grip separation or testing to break on highly extensible material, confirm the configuration before ordering.

You offer both a screw-grip package and a pneumatic grip package. When would I choose one over the other?

The pneumatic grips off more user-friendly and ergonomic handling. They are suitable for high volume testing demands.

Can the zwickiLine be used for coefficient of friction testing?

Yes, with the appropriate friction test fixture and setup. 

What does a coefficient of friction test measure?

A coefficient of friction test measures static and kinetic friction behavior between film surfaces or between film and another material. These results help evaluate handling, converting, packaging, winding, and processing behavior of films. Static friction is based on the initial peak force, and kinetic friction is based on the average sliding force over a defined distance. 

Can the zwickiLine be used for puncture or penetration testing of films?

Yes, with the appropriate fixture. 

Can the zwickiLine be used for 90° Peel Test?

Yes. The zwickiLine 500 N can be used for the 90° peel test according to ASTM D3330 test method F to measure the adherence of single-coated tapes when peeled at a 90° angle. For the standard-compliant test, we offer a 90° peel test kit add-on accessory that you can also purchase here.

Can I test adhesive tape with the online zwickiLine package?

The online portfolio includes testing of plastic film and adhesive tape applications. ASTM D3330 is a standard for determining peel adhesion of pressure-sensitive tape, including single-coated, double-coated, and adhesive transfer tapes. The exact fixture and method should be matched to the tape and peel geometry. 

Why do I need a strip cutter or thickness gauge?

Accurate specimen preparation and dimensional measurement are important for repeatable test results. The online portfolio includes a plastic film strip cutter and thickness gauge, which align with the need to prepare consistent specimens and measure film thickness before testing.

Melt Flow Testing with Cflow

What is the Cflow?

The Cflow is our manual extrusion plastometer for melt mass-flow rate testing, also known as MFR or melt flow index testing. It is designed for Method A testing and is a good fit for labs that need a simple, stand-alone instrument for occasional incoming goods inspection or basic material checks without a PC connection.

What is melt flow testing?

Melt flow testing measures how a molten thermoplastic material flows under defined temperature and load conditions. The result is commonly used for incoming material inspection, batch comparison, quality control, and checking whether a material’s flow behavior is within the expected range. ASTM D1238 and ISO 1133-1 define procedures for determining melt mass-flow rate, or MFR, and melt volume-flow rate, or MVR, of thermoplastics under specified temperature and load conditions.

What is MFR?

MFR stands for melt mass-flow rate. It is the mass of thermoplastic material that flows through the plastometer die under defined test conditions. ASTM D1238 and ISO 1133-1 describe Procedure A as a mass-measurement method for determining MFR.

What is ISO 1133?

ISO 1133 is an international standard for determining the melt mass-flow rate and melt volume-flow rate of thermoplastics. ISO 1133-1 defines the standard method, while ISO 1133-2 covers materials that are sensitive to time-temperature history or moisture, such as certain polyesters and polyamides. 

What is ASTM D1238?

ASTM D1238 is a standard test method for determining melt flow rates of thermoplastics using an extrusion plastometer. It is used to evaluate the rate of extrusion of molten thermoplastic resins under specified test conditions.

What standards can I test with the Cflow?

The Cflow is designed for MFR testing to Method A. Tests can be performed according to Method A of ISO 1133, ASTM D1238, ASTM D3364, and JIS K 7210.

Is the Cflow suitable for ASTM D1238 testing?

Yes. The Cflow is suitable for ASTM D1238 Method A melt mass-flow rate testing when configured and operated according to the applicable test requirements. The Cflow is designed for MFR tests to Method A and supports testing according to ASTM D1238.

Is the Cflow suitable for ISO 1133 testing?

Yes. The Cflow is suitable for ISO 1133 Method A melt mass-flow rate testing when configured and operated according to the applicable test requirements. The Cflow is designed for MFR testing to Method A and supports testing according to ISO 1133.

Is ASTM D1238 the same as ISO 1133?

No. ASTM D1238 and ISO 1133 are both used for melt flow testing of thermoplastics, but they are separate standards and should not be treated as automatically interchangeable. You should use the standard required by your customer, internal quality procedure, material specification, or regulatory requirement. ASTM D1238 covers melt flow rates of thermoplastics by extrusion plastometer, while ISO 1133-1 defines procedures for determining MFR and MVR of thermoplastic materials under specified temperature and load conditions. 

Which melt flow standard should I use?

You should use the standard specified by your customer, internal quality process, material supplier, product specification, or regulatory requirement. If no standard has been specified, confirm the required method before testing or comparing results, especially when results will be used for quality documentation, supplier approval, or customer acceptance.

Is the Cflow right for high-volume melt flow testing?

The Cflow is best suited for simple, stand-alone MFR testing and occasional material checks. It is primarily used for incoming goods inspection at plastics processors where melt flow tests are carried out sporadically, and no PC connection is required. For higher-throughput workflows, more advanced automation, or expanded data handling, another extrusion plastometer configuration, such as the ZwickRoell Mflow, may be more appropriate.

What materials can be tested with the Cflow?

The Cflow is used for thermoplastic materials that are suitable for Method A melt mass-flow rate testing under the applicable standard. The exact test conditions, including temperature and load, are typically defined by the material standard or the relevant test method. ISO 1133-1 notes that test conditions for melt flow rate measurement are normally specified in the material standard.

Why is melt flow testing important?

Melt flow testing provides a practical way to compare the flow behavior of thermoplastic materials under defined conditions. It is commonly used for incoming material inspection, lot-to-lot comparison, and quality control. ASTM notes that melt flow rate is not a fundamental polymer property; it is an empirically defined parameter influenced by the material’s physical properties, molecular structure, and test conditions.

Hardness Testing

What hardness testers are available through the shop?

Our online shop includes selected hardness testing solutions for straightforward metals testing applications. The portfolio includes selected analog and digital Rockwell hardness testers, portable hardness testers for large parts, testers for inner diameters and gear tooth flanks, and accessories such as hardness reference blocks and indenters. This online portfolio is intended for standard applications where the required test method and configuration are clearly defined.

What is Rockwell hardness testing?

Rockwell hardness testing measures hardness by pressing a defined indenter into the specimen under specified test forces and determining hardness from the depth of indentation. Rockwell is widely used because it is fast and practical for production and laboratory testing. The most widely used Rockwell hardness tests on metals are standardized according to ISO 6508 and ASTM E18.

What are ISO 6508 and ASTM E18?

ISO 6508 and ASTM E18 are key standards for Rockwell hardness testing on metals. They define Rockwell test methods, scales, and requirements used to evaluate metallic materials. Rockwell scales include examples such as HRA, HRB, HRC, HR30N, and HR15T, depending on the indenter and test force used. 

Which hardness standard should I use?

You should use the standard required by your customer, internal quality procedure, material specification, or regulatory requirement. For metals, common standards include ISO 6508 / ASTM E18 for Rockwell, ISO 6507 / ASTM E384 for Vickers, ASTM E92 for Vickers and Knoop, and ISO 6506 / ASTM E10 for Brinell. If no standard has been specified, confirm the required method before testing or comparing results.

Is the N3A suitable for Rockwell hardness testing?

Yes. The N3A is designed for simple and quick Rockwell hardness tests in accordance with ISO 6508 and ASTM E18. It is a compact, flexible option for workshop use and does not require a power supply. It can also be used for Brinell HBT and Vickers HVT testing by the differential depth method.

Is the DuraJet G5 suitable for Rockwell hardness testing?

Yes. The DuraJet G5 is our digital Rockwell hardness tester for use in demanding environments. It covers Rockwell testing according to ISO 6508 and ASTM E18 and offers a load range from 1 to 250 kg. 

What is the difference between an analog and digital hardness tester?

An analog hardness tester is a simple, robust solution for clearly defined hardness testing tasks, while a digital hardness tester offers more advanced operation, flexibility, and data handling. If your application requires basic Rockwell checks in a workshop environment, an analog tester may be sufficient. If you need a broader range of methods, digital operation, or more flexible testing workflows, a digital solution such as the DuraJet G5 may be the better fit.

What is a hardness reference block?

A hardness reference block, also called a test block or test plate, is used to verify the performance of a hardness tester. Reference blocks are used for indirect calibration methods and periodic daily inspection of hardness testing instruments. High-quality reference blocks with minimal hardness deviation help ensure reliable hardness test results. 

Do I need hardness reference blocks?

Yes, if your quality process requires regular verification of your hardness tester. Reference blocks are commonly used for daily checks and indirect verification. Our hardness reference block information states that indirect verification should be performed at least every 12 months in accordance with the appropriate standard, and that verification should be performed for each hardness scale used in testing.

What is an indenter?

An indenter is the part of the hardness tester that contacts the specimen and creates the indentation used to determine hardness. Different test methods and scales require different indenter types, such as diamond cone, diamond pyramid, or hard metal ball indenters. A good quality indenter is essential for accurate hardness testing.

Do indenters need to be checked or replaced?

Yes. Indenters should be checked regularly because damage can lead to inaccurate hardness test results. We recommend checking the indenter for damage during routine verification, using an appropriate hardness reference block as part of your quality process.

Which hardness tester is right for my application?

The right hardness tester depends on your material, test method, required standard, part geometry, hardness range, and testing environment. For simple Rockwell testing in accordance with ISO 6508 or ASTM E18, an N3A may be appropriate. For a digital Rockwell solution with broader testing capability and a larger load range, the DuraJet G5 may be a better fit. For large parts, inner diameters, or gear tooth flanks, a specialized hardness tester may be required.

When should I contact ZwickRoell before ordering a hardness tester online?

Contact us before ordering if you are unsure which hardness method, scale, indenter, test block, or configuration is required. You should also contact us if your parts have unusual geometry, difficult surfaces, special access requirements, very small test areas, or if your quality system requires specific calibration or certification documentation.

We offer convenient appointment slots that can be scheduled through our online booking tool