3.1 In general, with materials of these types, softening does not take place at a definite temperature. As the temperature rises, these materials gradually change from brittle or exceedingly thick and slow-flowing materials to softer and less viscous liquids. For this reason, the determination of the softening point must be made by a fixed, arbitrary, and closely defined method if the results obtained are to be comparable.

3.2 In these test methods, the softening point is defined as the temperature at which a disk of the sample held within a horizontal ring is forced downward a distance of 25.4 mm (1 in.) under the weight of a steel ball as the sample is heated at 5°C/min in a water, glycerin, silicone oil, ethylene glycol/water or glycerin/water bath.

3.3 The automatic method was chosen to be the reference method because a round robin demonstrated that it gave more precise results than the manual method.

1.1 These test methods are intended for determining the softening point of resins (including rosin and terpene resins) and similar materials by means of the ring-and-ball apparatus.

Note 1: For testing asphalts, tars, and pitches, see Test Method D36.

1.1.1 Test method using the automated ring and ball softening point apparatus is the reference method and the test method using the manual ring and ball method is an alternative method.

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.