Shore D Comparison Blocks are designed for use as reference standards and comparison samples for Type D Durometers. They provide a quick and convenient method of verifying instrument performance and checking measurement consistency before testing.
The set includes five test blocks covering a broad hardness range, allowing users to compare readings across commonly encountered Shore D values. These blocks are ideal for routine verification, operator training, quality assurance, and general durometer performance checks.
Each set is supplied with an in-house calibration certificate, providing confidence in the accuracy and traceability of the reference values.
Available Hardness Values
- Approximately 10 Shore D
- Approximately 20 Shore D
- Approximately 40 Shore D
- Approximately 65 Shore D
- Approximately 90 Shore D
Typical Applications
- Verification of Type D durometer performance
- Reference checks prior to testing
- Quality control inspections
- Laboratory and production environments
- Operator training and measurement consistency check
Key Features
- Designed for Shore D hardness scale applications
- Suitable for use with Type D Durometers
- Five hardness reference blocks included
- Wide hardness range from approximately 10 to 90 Shore D
- Ideal for comparison and instrument verification
- Supplied with an in-house calibration certificate
- Durable and easy to use
Hardness scales are used to measure a material’s resistance to indentation. The most appropriate scale depends on the material being tested and its hardness range.
Shore A vs Shore D
The Shore A and Shore D scales are the most common durometer scales for elastomers and plastics.
| Scale | Typical Materials | Hardness Range |
|---|---|---|
| Shore A | Soft rubbers, elastomers, silicones, neoprene | Soft to medium-hard |
| Shore D | Hard rubber, rigid plastics, thermoplastics | Medium-hard to very hard |
Examples:
- Rubber bands, soft seals, and flexible gaskets are typically measured using Shore A.
- Hard hats, PVC pipe, nylon components, and rigid polyurethane are often measured using Shore D.
As a general guide:
- A material measuring 95 Shore A may be better evaluated using Shore D because it has become too hard for the Shore A scale to provide sufficient resolution.
- Shore D is designed with a sharper indenter and stronger spring force to measure harder materials accurately.
Choose Shore D when testing:
- Rigid plastics
- Hard rubber compounds
- Thermoplastics
- Polycarbonate
- Acrylic materials
- Nylon components
- Hard polyurethane
For softer materials such as seals, flexible rubber, and silicone products, Shore A is usually the preferred scale.
Using Shore D Comparison Blocks
Shore D comparison blocks are primarily used to:
- Verify durometer performance
- Check instrument consistency
- Train operators
- Compare readings before testing production samples
A reading close to the certified value of the comparison block indicates that the durometer is functioning correctly and producing consistent results.
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