Paint and Coatings Industry Standards


D3363 Standard Test Method for Film Hardness by Pencil Test

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Revision Date: August 29, 2011
Updated On: August 29, 2011
Editorial Change:
 
Pencil hardness measurements have been used by the coatings industry for many years to determine the hardness of clear and pigmented organic coating films. This test method has also been used to determine the cure of these coatings, especially when forced dried using heat.

This test method is especially useful in developmental work and in production control testing in a single laboratory. It should be recognized that the results obtained may vary between different laboratories when different pencils as well as panels are used. Every effort should be made to standardize the hardness of the lead used and the technique followed.

If this test method is used as a basis for purchase agreement, maximum precision will be achieved if a given set of referee pencils be agreed upon between the purchaser and the seller.

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