ASTM D1037
Test Fixtures for Wood-Based Fiber and Particle Panels
ASTM D1037 Fig. 12 Test Fixture – Universal Grip Data Sheet (PDF)
ASTM D1037 is the main test standard for wood-based fiber and particle panels such as particleboard, fiberboard, MDF, hardboard and oriented strand board. It covers more than a dozen tests, from bending and tension to fastener holding, hardness and shear. Universal Grip builds a family of D1037 fixtures, so one supplier can equip a panel lab for the tests it runs most.
What ASTM D1037 Measures
Common D1037 tests include static bending (modulus of rupture and modulus of elasticity), tension parallel to the surface, tension perpendicular to the surface (internal bond), lateral nail resistance, nail and screw withdrawal, hardness and in-plane shear. Results are used for product grading, building code compliance and connection design, and for comparing resins, density profiles and press cycles.
How the ASTM D1037 Test Works
Cut specimens from the panel in the sizes each section of the standard specifies.
Condition them to equilibrium moisture content; panel properties change with moisture.
Mount each specimen in the matching fixture: bend supports, tension grips, bonded internal bond blocks, fastener holders or shear fixtures.
Load at the rate given for that test.
Record peak load and, where required, deflection, then calculate the property.
Specimens and Setup
Track panel direction and test both directions where the standard asks.
For internal bond, bond blocks to both faces with an adhesive stronger than the panel core.
Drive fasteners to the specified depth and pilot hole for withdrawal tests.
Measure thickness at several points; panel thickness varies.
Confirm specimen sizes and rates for each section against your copy of the current standard.
Universal Grip ASTM D1037 Fixture
Static bend fixture with adjustable span
Tensile grips for tension parallel to the surface
Internal bond (tension perpendicular) fixtures
Fastener and screw withdrawal fixtures with rigid panel clamping
In-plane and glue line shear fixtures
5 kN standard on fastener fixtures; capacities to suit each test
Applications
Particleboard and fiberboard QC
Oriented strand board testing
Fastener holding evaluation
Panel product development
Related Standards and Products
Send us your specimen dimensions, required capacity and machine connection through our contact page and we will quote an ASTM D1037 panel test fixture. Request a quote
ASTM D1037 FAQ
What materials does D1037 cover?
Wood-based fiber and particle panels, including particleboard, medium density fiberboard (MDF), hardboard and oriented strand board (OSB).
What is internal bond?
Internal bond is the tension strength perpendicular to the panel face. Blocks are bonded to both faces and pulled apart, which shows how well the core particles or fibers are bonded together.
Can one fixture do every D1037 test?
No. Each test needs its own fixture. We build the bending, tension, internal bond, fastener withdrawal and shear fixtures, and can quote the set your lab needs.
Is D1037 used for solid wood?
No. Solid wood is tested to ASTM D143. D1037 is for reconstituted panels made from fibers, particles or strands.