Durometer Hardness Testers

IMADA, Inc., provides accurate measuring devices for every need. Some of the many high-quality instruments we manufacture are durometers. Durometers are important to the manufacturing sector because they measure the hardness of materials. These include normal and hard rubber, as well as soft and hard plastics, by assessing the resistance to indentation of polymers, elastomers, and rubbers. They do this by applying pressure to the surface of an object via an indentor and measuring the level of resistance. The results are expressed in terms of the Shore hardness scale, which varies based on the materials.

Manufacturers require consistency and accuracy in their quality control instruments, which are qualities our durometers provide. Some examples of products that durometers are used during manufacturing are inline skates, truck tires, shoe inserts, and o-rings. These items all require accuracy and consistency in manufacturing. The term “durometer” is also used to indicate the rating of the material on the scale. The higher the number, the harder (or ability to resist indentation), the material is. For example, inline skates are sold and categorized using their durometer rating. Hockey skate wheels have a lower durometer rating, around 72-74A for more grip to allow for quick changes in direction, versus recreational skates that are closer to 82-84A for quicker speeds. In the automotive industry, a hardness tester is important for testing the rubber material of tires. Medical device manufacturers use them to ensure they are using the proper materials for the application, and foam manufacturing relies on these instruments to maintain consistency. The versatility of durometers for hardness testing makes them indispensable for quality control in numerous sectors.

Durometers, commonly called “Shore durometers” are named after the man who developed the method of measurement and first instrument. Durometers come in a variety of types. There are different scales of durometers that use different measuring systems. These are ASTM D2240 A and D. (Also known as Shore A and Shore D). Another commonly used scales are Asker C, which is used by shoe manufacturers.

Depending on the application, there are different hardness measurement procedures that can be used. These include handheld durometers, a constant load stand, and an auto-loading durometer.

WHAT IS A DUROMETER?

A durometer is a device used to measure the hardness of a wide variety of materials, from soft rubbers and polymers to hard plastics. Hardness measurements are used for quality control or comparison purposes. Durometers with varying levels of sophistication and accuracy may be used depending upon the application. Read More…