AS NZS 1301.407:2017 Methods of test for pulp and paper
8 Preparation of test pieces
If the ring-crush-resistance index is to be calculated, determine the grammage of the specimens in accordance with ISo 536[1].
Determine the thickness of the specimens in accordance with ISO 534.
Prepare the test pieces in the same atmosphere as that used to condition the samples. Gloves (5.4) should be worn throughout the sample preparation and testing procedure, as contaminants on hands, particularly moisture, may affect the test results.
Using a cutting device (5.1), carefully cut from the sample, one at a time, test pieces of 12,7 mm±0,1 mm in width and 152,4 mm 0 /0.25 mm in length, free from wrinkles, creases or other visible defects likely to influence the test results. Ensure that the edges are straight and cleanly cut without tears or frays, and are parallel to within 0,015 mm over their length.
Unless otherwise specifed, cut at least ten test pieces in each of the required directions. Test pieces with the long dimension perpendicular to the machine direction are used to test the machine-direction crush resistance. Those with the long dimension parallel to the machine direction are used to test the cross-direction crush resistance.
For two-sided specimens in which the fibre compositions of the two sides are different and where the side which will be on the outside of the container can be identified, cut the required number of test pieces with the outside towards the male die, or away from the blades if a double-knife cutter is used. These types of cutters tend to generate small protrusions or a slight curl of the cut edges which, if oriented toward the centre of the ring, can tend to lift the centre disc, causing erroneous readings.
If the sides are indistinguishable or if the outside is not known, cut the same number of test pieces, at least ten,with the same side facing the male die of the die cutter or the blades of the double-knife cutter.