ASTM F386-17(2022)

Overview

ASTM F386-17(2022) is the internationally recognized standard developed by ASTM International for measuring the thickness of resilient flooring materials with flat surfaces. This standard is essential for manufacturers, quality assurance professionals, and regulatory agencies involved with resilient nontextile floor coverings, including tiles and sheets. The method ensures that flooring products meet quality control requirements and comply with relevant industry specifications. It specifically excludes materials with a foamed layer and utilizes clearly defined measurement protocols to deliver consistent and reliable results.

Key Topics

• Purpose: The standard test method is designed to determine the thickness of resilient nontextile floor coverings such as tile and sheet products with flat surfaces.
• Apparatus: The required apparatus consists of a comparator stand featuring a flat anvil base and a precise thickness gauge, fitted with a flat presser foot of specified diameter and applied force, ensuring accurate and repeatable measurements.
• Procedure:
  • Specimens must be conditioned in a controlled environment for at least 24 hours before testing.
  • Measurements are taken by placing the flooring sample (at least 12x12 inches or one full tile) on the apparatus with its wearing surface facing up.
  • Multiple thickness measurements-at least five per specimen-are recorded at randomly selected locations, avoiding edges.
  • The average, minimum, and maximum (if required) thickness values are reported to the nearest 0.001 in. (0.02 mm).
• Units of Measurement: Inch-pound units are the primary standard of measurement; metric conversions are provided for informational purposes but are not considered standard.
• Precision and Bias: The method incorporates guidelines from interlaboratory studies to ensure the repeatability and reproducibility of thickness measurements across different laboratories and operators.

Applications

ASTM F386-17(2022) plays a critical role in the flooring industry and related sectors by providing an authoritative method for thickness measurement of resilient floor coverings. Practical applications include:

• Quality Control: Manufacturers use this standard to verify that their vinyl, rubber, or linoleum floor tiles and sheets comply with product thickness specifications, supporting consistent product quality and end-user satisfaction.
• Regulatory Compliance: The test method is referenced by specifiers and regulators for product certification, contract adherence, and to demonstrate conformity with industry requirements and government regulations.
• Product Comparison: Flooring designers, installers, and customers can use measurement results obtained according to ASTM F386 to objectively compare products from various suppliers.
• Laboratory Testing: Accredited test labs rely on standardized procedures to deliver reliable, repeatable results necessary for product development or dispute resolution.
• Defense and Public Projects: The standard is approved for use by US Department of Defense agencies, highlighting its reliability in critical applications.

Related Standards

Organizations involved with resilient flooring products may also reference these related ASTM standards to ensure comprehensive testing and specification compliance:

• ASTM E691 - Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine the Precision of a Test Method
• ASTM E177 - Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in ASTM Test Methods

Other related standards for resilient flooring may include requirements or recommended procedures for aspects such as wear resistance, slip resistance, and chemical stability.

Keywords: ASTM F386, resilient flooring, thickness measurement, floor covering test, vinyl tile, rubber flooring, linoleum sheet, quality control, nontextile flooring, flooring standard.