Low temperatures are often needed for conditioning of rubber prior to testing, as well as during the test. Conditioning is required to attain a specific temperature that is uniform throughout the specimen or for producing time-dependent effects. Specimens may be conditioned and tested in the same or different chambers.

This practice is intended to apply particularly, but not exclusively, to the following ASTM Standards: Test Methods D 746, D 945, D 1053, D 1229, D 1329, D 1415, D 2136, D 2137, D 2240, D 2632, Practice D 832, and Specification E 197.

1.1 This practice covers the general requirements for achieving and maintaining temperatures below 21°C for thermal conditioning and physical testing of rubber.

1.2 This practice describes the acceptable types and construction of low-temperature cabinets for conditioning and testing of rubber, the composition and circulation of heat-transfer media, and the required uniformity and precision of temperature control.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.