2026-02-03•5 min QC testing guide•VIESUNCO Materials Science Team

From Shore 0A Soft Gel to 95A Industrial Castor: QC Engineer’s Durometer Testing & Sampling Guide

Why did the lab measure 60A but the customer complained it felt too stiff? Learn proper durometer dwell time, temperature compensation, and mold shrinkage tips.

#Hardness Testing#Shore A#QC Standards#Sampling Tips#Lab Guide

From Shore 0A Soft Gel to 95A Industrial Castor: QC Engineer’s Durometer Testing & Sampling Guide

1. Why Hardness Discrepancies Happen

Soft elastomers are viscoelastic materials. Durometer readings drop 2–4 points between 1 second and 15 seconds:

▲ QC Technician Measuring TPE Test Plaque with Digital Durometer

ASTM D2240 Standard: Always record at 1-second or 5-second dwell time consistently.
Sample Thickness: Test plaques must be at least 6mm thick to prevent backing table interference.

2. Hardness Selection Chart

10A–25A: Ultra-soft goggles, seals, damping pads.
35A–55A: Footwear foam, soft toothbrush handles.
60A–75A: Automotive weatherstrips, power tool overmolding.
80A–95A: Industrial castors, wear-resistant sleeves.

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