Impact resistance testing of polymer materials

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Obtain documentation proving that your safety guards can withstand high-velocity impacts - and protect employees in critical situations.

Impact resistance testing is a test method that evaluates the ability of polymer materials to withstand heavy impacts from metal fragments at high velocity. The test is relevant when you need to select or document materials for machine guards where a failure could result in parts being ejected with great force. Danish Technological Institute performs impact testing in accordance with DS/EN ISO 14120:2015 Annex B, providing you with reliable documentation that your materials comply with international safety requirements.

How can Danish Technological Institute help you?

Danish Technological Institute offers specialized impact resistance testing of polymer materials with a focus on safety guards in industrial environments.

Impact resistance testing of polymer materials in accordance with DS/EN ISO 14120:2015 Annex B
Simulation of realistic scenarios using projectiles fired at high velocity
Evaluation of materials' ability to act as effective barriers against ejected fragments
Detailed test report containing results and professional assessment
Consulting on material selection for safety guards based on test results
Documentation for use in certification, CE marking, and regulatory compliance

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Figure 1: Selecting the correct material for safety guards are crucial for safety in the workplace.

Why is impact resistance testing important?

In the worst-case scenario, a machine malfunction can cause metal fragments to be ejected with great force. If the safety guard cannot withstand this, you risk severe personal injuries. Impact resistance testing provides you with a documented foundation ensuring that the materials you use actually deliver the required protection.

Without documented testing, material selection is based on assumptions. With an impact test conducted according to DS/EN ISO 14120:2015 Annex B, you receive an internationally recognized validation basis that documents the material's actual performance under realistic loads.

How the test is performed

The impact resistance test simulates a situation where a machine failure results in metal fragments being ejected at high velocity. Projectiles are fired at the test material under controlled conditions that mimic real hazardous incidents. The test assesses whether the material can act as an effective barrier and absorb kinetic energy without shattering or allowing fragments to penetrate.

The outcome is documented in a detailed test report that gives you an overview of the material's strength, fracture pattern, and suitability as a safety guard.

Who needs impact resistance testing?

Impact resistance testing is relevant for companies that manufacture, specify, or use safety guards in industrial environments:

Manufacturers of safety guards who need to document that their products meet standard requirements
Machine manufacturers (OEMs) who need to CE-mark machinery with integrated protection
Industrial companies seeking to ensure that existing guards provide sufficient protection
Consulting engineers and occupational health and safety specialists who advise on material selection for safety-critical applications

Standards and documentation

The impact resistance test is carried out in accordance with DS/EN ISO 14120:2015 Annex B - Safety of machinery - Guards - General requirements for the design and construction of fixed and movable guards.

This is an international standard for machine guarding.

Contact us regarding impact resistance testing

Do you need polymer materials tested for safety guards? Contact Danish Technological Institute to discuss how we can help you document the impact strength of your materials in accordance with DS/EN ISO 14120:2015.

Frequently asked questions about impact resistance testing

What is an impact resistance test?

An impact resistance test is a testing method that evaluates a material's ability to resist heavy impacts. When testing safety guards, projectiles are fired at high velocity at the material to simulate scenarios where metal fragments are ejected from a machine during a failure event.

Which standard is used for impact resistance testing of safety guards?

Danish Technological Institute conducts impact resistance tests in accordance with DS/EN ISO 14120:2015 Annex B, which is the international standard for machine guards. The standard is harmonized under the Machinery Directive.

Which materials can undergo impact resistance testing?

The test is primarily aimed at polymer materials used in safety guards, such as polycarbonate and other transparent or high-impact plastics. Contact Danish Technological Institute to clarify whether your specific material can be tested.

When is impact resistance testing relevant?

Impact resistance testing is relevant when you need to document that a safety guard can withstand ejected fragments resulting from a machine malfunction. It is typically required in connection with CE marking, product documentation, or risk assessments.

What do you gain from an impact resistance test?

You receive a detailed test report documenting the material's performance under controlled test conditions. The report can serve as a basis for material selection, CE marking, and regulatory documentation.

How does this impact resistance test differ from conventional impact tests (Charpy/Izod)?

Impact resistance testing according to DS/EN ISO 14120:2015 Annex B simulates real hazardous incidents with projectiles at high velocity, unlike standard impact tests such as Charpy or Izod, which measure the material's general impact toughness under laboratory conditions. The test according to DS/EN ISO 14120 specifically evaluates whether the material can function as a protective barrier.