In the world of plastics, melt flow index measures the output rate -- or flow -- that occurs in natural polymer or masterbatch over the course of 10 minutes when a piston applies a fixed amount of pressure at 190 degrees Celsius. Knowing the MFI helps manufacturers asses the viscosity of a substance to better control its processing. The International Organization for Standardization's 1133 and the American Society for Testing and Material's ASTM D1238 both serve as standards for measuring melt flow index.

Similarities

ISO 1133 and ASTM D1238 have more similarities than differences. Manufacturers consider these standards “technically equivalent,” as both detail similar standards for using an extrusion plastometer, which is commonly known as a melt indexer. Both standards present tests that measure one point on the viscosity curve under controlled conditions and both express MFI in units of grams per 10 minutes. Each standard specifies orifice length and diameter, barrel temperature and piston load ratings.

Methods

While the ISO 1133 standard requires a five-minute preheat time, ASTM D1238 requires a seven-minute preheat time. The ISO 1133 standard has a starting point of 50 mm and entails 30 mm of piston travel whereas the ASTM D1238 method has a starting point of 46 mm and entails between 6.35 and 25.4 mm of travel. Additionally, ISO and ASTM standards propose a slight dimensional difference in the piston foot of the melt indexer.

Features

ASTM D1238 offers a variation of the melt-flow test known as a multi-weight melt flow test. This procedure -- which uses different weights of materials -- offers multiple measurements on a single charge, including measurements under varying load conditions. The ISO 1133 standard does not detail this alternative method. The ASTM standard also details recommended technical specifications for melt indexers, while ISO 1133 lacks this feature.

Procedures A and B

ISO 1133 and ASTM D1238 both offer two MFI test methods, known as Procedures A and B. Procedure A relies on a manual melt indexer making cuts at timed intervals that are then weighed on an analytical balance to determine MFI, while Procedure B features no cutting or weighing. Instead, it determines MFI via measuring a volume of extruded resin. Typically, Procedure B produces more accurate measurements as it has less opportunities for user interference. However, this procedure requires an accurate value for the resin melt density at the test temperature, while Procedure A does not require this knowledge.