5.1 The “Mandrel Bend” test is simple and fast. It requires little investment in equipment and little operator training. The prime purpose is to determine whether a hot-melt adhesive meets flexibility requirements. This test is also useful for comparing flexibility of several adhesives. It can be used to design adhesives by comparing the flexibility of various formulations to meet specific end use parameters. The adhesive flexibility can be determined at temperatures other than ambient by conditioning the test apparatus and test specimens at the desired temperature and performing the test under these temperature conditions.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the flexibility of a hot-melt adhesive in sheet form under specific test conditions. This is a working test. Its results are useful for comparing adhesives, not for absolute characterization of adhesives.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.4 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.