ISO 13260

ISO 13 260 defines a standardized immersion method to determine the density of non-cellular solid plastics. Widely used in plastic pipe production, it details the use of air and liquid weighing, equipment specifications, and sample preparation to achieve comparable, repeatable density measurements for quality control and material characterization.

More ISO standards

View all standards here
ISO 13260

ISO 13 260 plastic pipes—method for determining density explained

Overview of ISO 13 260—determining density of plastics

ISO 13 260 specifies a standardized method for determining the density of non-cellular plastics, such as those used in the manufacturing of plastic pipes and fittings. The test method is primarily aimed at assessing the density of raw materials, semi-finished products, and finished components, excluding cellular plastics and composites containing high levels of fillers. Accurate density determination is essential because density directly influences mechanical properties, such as strength and stiffness, and serves as a critical quality control parameter within the plastic pipe industry.

  • The standard covers plastics in solid form, whether molded, extruded, or machined from blocks or sheets
  • It utilizes the immersion method, in which a test specimen is weighed in air and then in a suitable liquid, typically water
  • ISO 13 260 can be used for both routine production control and material characterization purposes

Principle of the test method

The principle of ISO 13 260 is based on Archimedes’ principle, in which the loss of weight of a specimen when immersed in a liquid equals the weight of liquid displaced. The density of the specimen is calculated by measuring its weight in air and its apparent weight when submerged in a liquid of known density. Requirements for specimen size, liquid temperature, and the avoidance of air bubbles are detailed in the standard to ensure accuracy and reproducibility.

Equipment and materials addressed by ISO 13 260

The standard outlines precise requirements for balances, immersion vessels, and the liquids to be used, typically recommending distilled or deionized water at a controlled temperature (commonly 23°C or 27°C). It also details sample preparation, including conditioning procedures and dimensions, to ensure comparability of results across laboratories and test series.

Takeaway

ISO 13 260 is a recognized global standard for determining the density of solid plastics in the context of pipes and other industrial applications. By following the procedures detailed in the standard, manufacturers and quality control laboratories can achieve reliable and comparable density measurements for materials and finished products.

  • Focuses on non-cellular solid plastics, especially in piping
  • Uses Archimedes’ principle (immersion method with liquid)
  • Specifies equipment and sample handling requirements
  • Ensures repeatable, industry-standard density measurements

Step by step guide to carrying out ISO 13 260 density testing

Setting up for ISO 13 260—preparation steps

Begin by preparing the equipment in accordance with ISO 13 260: select a balance accurate to 0.1 mg, an immersion vessel, and a liquid such as distilled water maintained at the specified temperature (often 23°C). Prepare the test specimens by conditioning them as required by the standard, ensuring that samples are free from surface contamination and are at the designated dimensions. Ensure that all equipment and samples have reached equilibrium with the laboratory environment.

Measuring the specimen weights accurately

Weigh each specimen in air and then using a wire or holder, immerse the specimen completely in the liquid and record its apparent weight. Avoid the formation of air bubbles on the sample surface, as this will affect the measurement. If necessary, gently dislodge air bubbles using a fine brush or by tilting the specimen. The temperature of both the air and the liquid should be controlled and recorded to minimize measurement errors.

  • Weigh specimen in air and record the value
  • Weigh specimen submerged in the reference liquid
  • Document temperature of the immersion liquid

Calculating density and documenting results

Use the recorded weights and the known density of the immersion liquid to calculate the density of the specimen according to the formula specified in ISO 13 260. Repeat the process for each specimen, and, if required, calculate the average value. Document all procedural details, including sample identification, weights, temperatures, and any deviations from the standard.

Quality assurance best practices

Maintain traceability by calibrating the balance and thermometer before each testing session. Compare results with reference values or materials if available. Always follow the sample conditioning and handling procedures described in the standard to avoid introducing systematic errors.

  • Calibrate all measuring instruments prior to use
  • Document any deviations from standard procedures
  • Perform tests at the defined temperature
  • Repeat measurements to ensure consistency
  • Store results and calculations with full traceability

Summary

ISO 13 260 provides a precise, stepwise procedure for determining the density of non-cellular plastic materials. Following the standard helps guarantee reliable, accurate, and reproducible results, which are essential for quality control in the plastics industry.

  • Ensure suitable equipment and laboratorial conditions
  • Follow prescribed sample preparation and handling steps
  • Use correct calculation and record keeping

Talk to one of our testing experts

Peter Sejer

Partner & Sales Director

+45 8696 1933

+45 4051 0278

sales@sciteq.com

Jonas Jørgensen

Sales Manager

+45 8696 1933

+45 2779 2178

sales@sciteq.com

Dennis Damborg Hansen

Managing Director

+45 8696 1933

+45 4241 7574

sales@sciteq.com

Contact information

We are at your disposal for any questions, comments and suggestions. We look forward to hearing from you.

Contact form

Feel free to contact us using the contact form below.
We strive to answer all inquiries within 24 hours (on working days).

    Need help?

      Thank you!
      We will contact you as soon as possible.