TAPPI T 530 Hercules size test

Introduction

There are many methods for measuring the aqueous resistance of paper and paperboard. The many methods can be placed in categories depending on the way water hold-out is measured. One way of classifying tests could be direct versus indirect measurement. Another might be fixed time versus degree of penetration. Ink resistance by the Hercules method is best classified as a direct measurement test for the degree of penetration. Others classify it as a rate of penetration test. There is no one best test for measuring “sizing.” Test selection depends on end use and mill control needs. This method is especially suitable for use as a mill control sizing test to accurately detect changes in sizing level. It offers the sensitivity of the ink float test while providing reproducible results, shorter test times, and automatic end point determination.

Scope

The TAPPI T 530 Hercules size test measures the resistance of paper to permeation of an aqueous penetrant and is a useful general purpose test for degree of sizing. It is applicable to most bleached, unbleached, and colored paper or boards which are surface sized and/or internally sized.

It is not applicable to transparent or translucent papers (e.g., low basis weight papers where ink affects the reflection from the measured surface), colored papers that do not contrast with the green test ink, or papers having as part of their structure an effective water barrier such as polyethylene film. An alternate method should be used for the direct comparison of papers which differ significantly in brightness, color, opacity, basis weight, or filler content, such as may exist among different grades of paper. This limitation does not apply to normal production variations in these properties. It is a good test for comparing different samples of the same grade.

Summary

This method employs an aqueous, dark color, dye solution as the penetrant to permit optical detection of the liquid front as it moves through the sheet. The apparatus determines the time required for the reflectance of the sheet surface not in contact with the penetrant to drop to a predetermined percentage of its original reflectance.

Significance

Sizing, as measured by resistance to permeation through or absorption into paper of aqueous liquids, is an important characteristic of many papers. Typical of these are bag, containerboard, butcher’s wrap, writing, and some printing grades.

This method may be used to monitor paper or board production for specific end uses provided acceptable correlation has been established between test values and the paper’s end use performance. Due to the nature of the test and the penetrant, it will not necessarily correlate sufficiently to be applicable to all end use requirements. This method measures sizing by rate of penetration. Other methods measure sizing by surface contact, surface penetration, or absorption. Size tests are selected based on the ability to simulate the means of water contact or absorption in end use. This method can also be used to optimize size chemical usage costs.

The sensitivity and precision of this method make it attractive for specification purposes provided suitable correlation is established.

Please note:
SGS-IPS cannot sell or otherwise provide standards, specifications, or test procedures to third parties.

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