<table>
<colgroup>
<col style="width: 15%" />
<col style="width: 0%" />
<col style="width: 15%" />
<col style="width: 6%" />
<col style="width: 0%" />
<col style="width: 1%" />
<col style="width: 11%" />
<col style="width: 0%" />
<col style="width: 10%" />
<col style="width: 15%" />
<col style="width: 7%" />
<col style="width: 4%" />
<col style="width: 12%" />
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="3"><strong>APPLICATION</strong></td>
<td colspan="10"><strong>REVISION</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="2"><strong>NEXT ASSY</strong></td>
<td><strong>USED ON</strong></td>
<td colspan="3"><strong>LTR</strong></td>
<td colspan="4"><strong>DESCRIPTION</strong></td>
<td colspan="2"><strong>DATE</strong></td>
<td><strong>APPROVAL</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="2">-</td>
<td>-</td>
<td colspan="3">-</td>
<td colspan="4">RELEASED/EC8163-001</td>
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
<td colspan="3">A</td>
<td colspan="4">SEE EC8790-001 GT/GT</td>
<td colspan="2">8/3/06</td>
<td>T. GINGELL</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
<td colspan="3">B</td>
<td colspan="4">SEE EC8801-001 GT/GT</td>
<td colspan="2">8/15/06</td>
<td>T. GINGELL</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
<td colspan="3">C</td>
<td colspan="4">SEE EC8854-001 GT/GT</td>
<td colspan="2">10/3/06</td>
<td>T. GINGELL</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="2"></td>
<td></td>
<td colspan="3">D</td>
<td colspan="4">SEE EC8889-001 GT/GT</td>
<td colspan="2">11/30/06</td>
<td>T. CHAPMAN</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="13"><blockquote>
<p>1. This specification prepared in accordance with USPS-STD-11.</p>
<p><strong>U</strong>NITED <strong>S</strong>TATES
<strong>P</strong>OSTAL <strong>S</strong>ERVICE
<strong>S</strong>PECIFICATION</p>
</blockquote></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="4"><strong>SIGNATURE</strong></td>
<td colspan="3"><strong>DATE</strong></td>
<td colspan="6"><img src="media/image1.wmf" /></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td><span class="smallcaps">Drawn By</span></td>
<td colspan="3">P. OLEXA</td>
<td colspan="3">5/5/05</td>
<td colspan="6" rowspan="4"><p>TEST PROCEDURES FOR</p>
<p>AUTOMATABLE POLYWRAP FILMS</p></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td><span class="smallcaps">Checked By</span></td>
<td colspan="3">L. TUSKE</td>
<td colspan="3">5/25/05</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td><span class="smallcaps">Approved By</span></td>
<td colspan="3"><span class="smallcaps">G. TARBOX</span></td>
<td colspan="3">5/25/05</td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td><span class="smallcaps">Project Engineer</span></td>
<td colspan="3">T. GINGELL</td>
<td colspan="3">6/8/05</td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="8"><strong><span class="smallcaps">NOT TO BE USED FOR
MANUFACTURE UNLESS APPROVED FOR THE US POSTAL
SERVICE.</span></strong></td>
<td colspan="5"></td>
</tr>
<tr class="odd">
<td colspan="5">FOR THE United states Postal Service</td>
<td colspan="3" rowspan="2">6/8/05</td>
<td rowspan="2"><p>Cage No.</p>
<p><strong>27085</strong></p></td>
<td colspan="2" rowspan="2">USPS-T-3204</td>
<td colspan="2" rowspan="2"><p>Sheet</p>
<p>1 of <span class="smallcaps">20</span></p></td>
</tr>
<tr class="even">
<td colspan="5">W. GOODE</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

 2005 United States Postal Service

1\. Scope

1.1 [Scope]{.underline} -- This specification covers the procedures to
be employed to test polywrap film used to enclose flat mail pieces
destined for automated sorting operations. These tests can best be
performed by testing laboratories that have been approved by the USPS to
provide this service. The exact procedures delineated in this
specification are to be considered mandatory by the independent testing
laboratories and are intended to serve as guidelines for polywrap
manufacturers endeavoring to develop films capable of meeting this
specification. A list of approved laboratories can be found in Appendix
A of this specification. Polywrap materials that meet the requirements
of this specification will be included in the United States Postal
Service list of automation approved polywrap materials and may be
considered acceptable for use in automated flat mail processing.

2\. APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS

2.1 [Non-Government Documents]{.underline} -- The following documents
form a part of this specification to the extent specified herein. Unless
otherwise indicated, the issue in effect on the date of testing shall
apply.

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

ASTM D374 Standard Test Method for Thickness of Solid Electrical
Insulation

ASTM D882 Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Thin Plastic
Sheeting

ASTM D1003 Standard Test Method for Haze and Luminous Transmittance of
Transparent Plastics

ASTM D1894 Standard Test Method for Static and Kinetic Coefficients of
Friction of Plastic Film and Sheeting

ASTM D3354 Standard Test Method for Blocking Load of Plastic Film by the
Parallel Plate Method

ASTM D4470 Standard Test Method for Static Electrification

(Copies of ASTM documents may be obtained from the American Society of
Testing and Materials, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA
19428-2959, or by visiting their web site at www.astm.org.)

3\. REQUIREMENTS

3.1 [Description]{.underline} -- Materials submitted for testing must
possess characteristics that meet or exceed the following requirements.
Failure to meet any of the following requirements will result in the
subject material being designated as unacceptable for automated
processing and may not be marketed for this purpose.

3.1.1 [Coefficient of Friction, Film on Film]{.underline} -- The film on
film kinetic coefficient of friction must fall between 0.20 and 0.55,
inclusive, when tested in accordance with 4.5.1. Failure to achieve the
specified value shall constitute failure of this test.

3.1.2 [Coefficient of friction, Film on Metal]{.underline} -- The film
on metal kinetic coefficient of friction must be less than 0.45 when
tested in accordance with 4.5.2. Failure to achieve the specified value
shall constitute failure of this test.

3.1.3 [Haze]{.underline} -- The haze value must be less than 70% when
tested in accordance with 4.5.3. Failure to achieve the specified value
shall constitute failure of this test.

3.1.4 [1% Secant Modulus, Transverse Direction]{.underline} -- The
Secant Modulus must be greater than 50,000 psi in the transverse
direction when tested in accordance with 4.5.4. Failure to achieve the
specified value shall constitute failure of this test.

3.1.5 [1% Secant Modulus, Machine Direction]{.underline} -- The Secant
Modulus must be greater than 40,000 psi in the machine direction when
tested in accordance with 4.5.4. Failure to achieve the specified value
shall constitute failure of this test.

3.1.6 [Nominal Gauge]{.underline} -- The material must have a nominal
gauge greater than .001 inches when tested in accordance with 4.5.5.
Failure to achieve the specified value shall constitute failure of this
test.

3.1.7 [Blocking]{.underline} -- The blocking load exhibited by the
material must be less than 15 grams when tested in accordance with
4.5.6. Failure to achieve the specified value shall constitute failure
of this test.

3.1.8 [Static Charge]{.underline} -- The material must generate a static
charge of less than 2.0 kilovolts when tested in accordance with 4.5.7.
Failure to achieve the specified value shall constitute failure of this
test.

3.2 [Test Result Reporting Sheet]{.underline} -- The Test Result
Reporting Sheet format is shown in Appendix B of this specification. All
test results shall be entered in the appropriate fill-in spaces on the
Test Result Reporting Sheet for each material tested. Completed Test
Result Reporting Sheets are to be mailed to the cognizant USPS
representative at the following address:

## Manager, Mailing Standards

## U.S. Postal Service 

## 475 L\'Enfant Plaza RM 3436 

## Washington DC 20260-3436

4\. QUALITY ASSURANCE PROVISIONS

4.1 [Responsibility for Testing]{.underline} -- If a polywrap
manufacturer wishes to have a given polywrap formulation included in the
List of Approved Polywrap, the formulation must meet the characteristics
in this specification. The tests set forth in this specification can
best be performed by laboratories having been approved for this purpose
by the USPS. Selection of an approved laboratory, from the list found in
appendix A, is at the discretion of the submitting manufacturer. The
USPS reserves the right to conduct periodic audits of the approved
laboratories to insure their compliance with the requirements of this
specification. Audits may consist of the observation of actual testing
by a USPS representative.

4.2 [Submission of Materials for Testing]{.underline} -- Polywrap film
materials are to be delivered to the independent laboratory machine
wrapped on a 3 inch inside diameter fiberboard core. A minimum of 500
feet of film must be submitted. The roll to be tested must be packaged
in such a way as to prevent any damage to the film in shipping. Treated
surfaces must be clearly indicated. Film submitted in any other fashion
must be considered unacceptable and must not be tested.

4.3 [Corona Treated and Non-Treated Films]{.underline} -- Corona treated
and non-treated films of a given formulation must be submitted
separately and each one must be subjected to the complete battery of
tests. Approval of film in one condition in no way implies approval of
the other.

4.4 [Films of Varying Gauge]{.underline} -- For films of a given
formulation and surface treatment, manufactured in various gauges,
manufacturers must submit the thinnest film to be subjected to the
complete battery of tests. If the thinnest film satisfactorily achieves
the required characteristics, the USPS will list the product as approved
for all thicknesses that meet the gauge requirement (see Section 3.1.6).
Should the thinnest gauge initially submitted fail to achieve the
required characteristics, the manufacturer may submit successively
thicker gauge materials until successful test results are achieved.
However, only materials with a thickness equal to or greater than the
successfully tested material will be listed as approved for use in
automated mail processing.

4.5 [Test Procedures]{.underline} -- Submitted materials are to be
subjected to the following battery of tests. These procedures are to be
strictly adhered to in order to insure the repeatability and
reproducibility of the test results between laboratories to the highest
degree practicable.

4.5.1 [Kinetic Coefficient of Friction, Film on Film, ASTM
D894]{.underline} -- The following test procedure is intended to
supplement, but not replace, ASTM test method D1894. Full understanding
and compliance with all requirements of ASTM D1894 is required to
provide accurate test results.

4.5.1.1 [Equipment]{.underline} -- As specified in the ASTM D1894 test
method.

a.  [Test Apparatus]{.underline} - As shown in ASTM D1894, Figure 1(c)

b.  [Load Recording System]{.underline} - Accurate to ±5% of value as
    described in method. Accuracy of ±1 gram will be required to meet
    this requirement for a friction coefficient of 0.100.

c.  [Plane]{.underline} - 304 stainless steel with a No. 8 mirror
    finish, conforming to ASTM\
    A240. May be purchased at
    [www.mcmaster.com](http://WWW.McMASTER.COM/), Part No. 9785K11, Cage
    No. 39428.

d.  [Sled]{.underline} - As described in method including foam wrapping.
    Foam similar to that specified may be purchased at
    [www.mcmaster.com](http://WWW.McMASTER.COM/), Part No. 86375K133,
    Cage No. 39428.

e.  [Nylon Monofilament]{.underline} - As described in method. The
    alternate beaded chain is not an acceptable alternative.

4.5.1.2 [Samples]{.underline} -- The following test specimens are
required for this procedure. Specimens are to be cut with the long
dimension parallel to the machine direction. It is advisable to cut more
specimens than required in case re-testing is required. Specimens that
show wrinkling or other damage must not be used for testing.

a.  Five (5) specimens of film 3 by 5 inches.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
a.  Five (5) specimens of film 5 by 8 inches.

4.5.1.3 [Conditioning]{.underline} -- Specimens are to be conditioned in
accordance with section 8.1 of ASTM D1894. Insure that adequate air
circulation is present on all sides.

4.5.1.4 [Test Procedure]{.underline}

a.  Cut the specimens from the roll using care to handle only the edges
    so that the center of the specimens remains clean and undamaged.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
b.  Use a felt tipped marker to place the sample identification on the\
    NON-TREATED SIDE (if applicable) of each specimen. This marking
    should be on the edge of the specimen where it won't alter the test
    results.

c.  Clean the plane with a lint free cloth and alcohol or acetone to
    remove any residue that may be present from previous samples. Make
    sure the solvent has completely evaporated before proceeding. This
    cleaning should be performed between each sample. A sample consists
    of five specimens of one film material.

d.  Secure a 5 by 8 inch specimen, treated side up if applicable, on the
    plane by taping the ends. Do not place any tape at the center in the
    path of the sled. The 8 inch dimension of the specimen must be
    parallel to the sliding direction of the sled.

e.  Place the 3 by 5 inch specimen treated side down, if applicable, on
    a lint free cloth. Place the test sled on the center of the specimen
    with the nylon towline parallel to the long dimension of the
    specimen.

f.  Cut a slot or a V approximately 1 inch deep into the edge of the
    film specimen under the nylon monofilament.

g.  Wrap the film specimen over the front of the sled so that the Nylon
    monofilament fits into the slot or V cut into the specimen and tape
    the film to the top of the sled. The other end of the film specimen
    will remain under the test sled and does not need to be taped. Do
    not place any tape on the bottom, sliding surface of the sled.

h.  Confirm that the specimen wraps smoothly around the front of the
    sled such that no leading edges will drag on the test surface and no
    wrinkles are present on the bottom surface.

i.  Lightly pass a lint free cloth over the treated surface of both
    specimens to remove any dust or lint which may be present. Do not
    wipe heavily as it could remove any surface treatment.

j.  Place the sled and specimen gently onto the film covered plane in
    the test start position. Do not slide the specimen along the plane
    prior to the start of the test.

k.  Run the test at six inches per minute while continuously recording
    load as the sled slides along the plane. The test may be stopped
    after the sled has traveled a minimum of six inches.

l.  Calculate the kinetic coefficient of friction over five inches of
    travel after excluding the initial peak load. Results from
    calculation over a shorter or longer distance may not be equivalent.

m.  Measure a total of five specimens and report five kinetic friction
    results and a kinetic friction mean on the test result data sheet.

4.5.2 [Kinetic Coefficient of Friction, Film on Metal, ASTM
D1894]{.underline} -- The following test procedure is intended to
supplement, but not replace, ASTM test method D1894.\
Full understanding and compliance with all requirements of ASTM D1894 is
required to provide accurate test results.

a.  [Equipment]{.underline} -- As specified in the ASTM D1894 test
    method.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
n.  [Test apparatus]{.underline} - As shown in ASTM D1894, Figure 1(c)

o.  [Load Recording System]{.underline} - Accurate to ±5% of value as
    described in method. Accuracy of ±1 gram will be required to meet
    this requirement for a friction coefficient of 0.100.

p.  [Plane]{.underline} -- 304 Stainless Steel with a No. 8 mirror
    finish, conforming to\
    ASTM A240. May be purchased at
    [www.mcmaster.com](http://WWW.McMASTER.COM/), Part No. 9785K11, Cage
    No. 39428.

q.  [Sled]{.underline} - As described in method including foam wrapping.
    Foam similar to that specified may be purchased at
    [www.mcmaster.com](http://WWW.McMASTER.COM/), Part No. 86375K133,
    Cage No. 39428.

r.  [Nylon Monofilament]{.underline} - As described in method. The
    alternate beaded chain is not an acceptable alternative.

s.  [Samples]{.underline} -- The following test specimens are required
    for this procedure. Specimens are to be cut with the long dimension
    parallel to the machine direction. It is advisable to cut more
    specimens than required in case re-testing is required. Specimens
    that show wrinkling or other damage must not be used for testing.

    1\. Five (5) specimens of film 3 by 5 inches.

4.5.2.1 [Conditioning]{.underline} -- Specimens are to be conditioned in
accordance with section 8.1 of ASTM D1894. Insure that adequate air
circulation is present on all sides.

4.5.2.2 [Test Procedure]{.underline}

a.  Cut the specimens from the roll using care to handle only the edges
    so that the center of the specimens remains clean and undamaged.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
t.  Use a felt tipped marker to place the sample identification on the\
    NON-TREATED SIDE (if applicable) of each specimen. This marking
    should be on the edge of the specimen where it won't alter the test
    results.

u.  Clean the plane with a lint free cloth and alcohol or acetone to
    remove any residue that may be present from previous samples. Make
    sure the solvent has completely evaporated before proceeding. This
    cleaning should be performed between each sample. A sample consists
    of five specimens of one film material.

v.  Place the 3 by 5 inch specimen treated side down, if applicable, on
    a lint free cloth. Place the test sled on the center of the specimen
    with the nylon towline parallel to the long dimension of the
    specimen.

w.  Cut a slot or a V approximately 1 inch deep into the edge of the
    film specimen under the nylon monofilament.

x.  Wrap the film specimen over the front of the sled so that the Nylon
    monofilament fits into the slot or V cut into the specimen and tape
    the film to the top of the sled. The other end of the film specimen
    will remain under the test sled and does not need to be taped. Do
    not place any tape on the bottom, sliding surface of the sled.

y.  Confirm that the specimen wraps smoothly around the front of the
    sled such that no leading edges will drag on the test surface and no
    wrinkles are present on the bottom surface.

z.  Lightly pass a lint free cloth over the treated surface of the
    specimen to remove any dust or lint which may be present. Do not
    wipe heavily as it could remove any surface treatment.

a.  Place the sled and specimen gently onto the plane in the test start
    position. Do not slide the specimen along the plane prior to the
    start of the test.

b.  Run the test at six inches per minute while continuously recording
    load as the sled slides along the plane. The test may be stopped
    after the sled has traveled a minimum of six inches.

c.  Calculate the kinetic coefficient of friction over five inches of
    travel after excluding the initial peak load. Results from
    calculation over a shorter or longer distance may not be equivalent.

d.  Measure a total of five specimens and report five kinetic friction
    results and a kinetic friction mean on the test result data sheet.

4.5.3 [Haze, ASTM D1003]{.underline} -- The following test procedure is
intended to supplement, but not replace, ASTM test method D1003. Full
understanding and compliance with all requirements of ASTM D1003 is
required to provide accurate test results.

4.5.3.1 [Equipment]{.underline} -- As specified in the ASTM D1003 test
method, procedure A or B.

4.5.3.2 [Samples]{.underline} -- The following test specimens are
required for this procedure. It is advisable to cut more specimens than
required in case re-testing is required. Specimens that show wrinkling
or other damage must not be used for testing.

a.  Three (3) specimens 3 by 3 inches or larger.

4.5.3.3 [Conditioning]{.underline} -- Specimens are to be conditioned in
accordance with section 6.1 of ASTM D1003. Insure that adequate air
circulation is present on all sides.

4.5.3.4 [Test Procedure]{.underline}

a.  Cut the specimens from the roll using care to handle only the edges
    so that the center of the specimens remains clean and undamaged.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
e.  Use a felt tipped marker to place the sample identification on the\
    NON-TREATED SIDE (if applicable) of each specimen. This marking
    should be on the edge of the specimen where it won't alter the test
    results.

f.  Test the sample in accordance with section 8.2 of ASTM D1003 making
    sure that the treated side of the film faces away from the
    integrating sphere.

g.  Measure a total of three specimens and report three haze results and
    a mean for each sample on the test result data sheet.

4.5.4 [1% Secant Modulus, Machine & Transverse Direction, ASTM D
882]{.underline} -- The following test procedure is intended to
supplement, but not replace, ASTM test method\
D882. Full understanding and compliance with all requirements of ASTM
D882 is required to provide accurate test results.

4.5.4.1 [Equipment]{.underline} -- As specified in the ASTM D882 test
method.

a.  [Grips]{.underline} - Flat faced grips with 800 grit sandpaper taped
    to the gripping surfaces.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
h.  [Load Recording System]{.underline} - Accurate to ±1% of peak load
    as described in method. An accuracy of ±0.005 pounds force will be
    required to meet this requirement for a 0.001 inch thick sample with
    a tensile stress of 500 psi at 1% strain.

i.  [Extension Indicator]{.underline} - Accurate to ±1% of peak as
    described in method. An accuracy of ±0.001 inches will be required
    to meet this requirement at a 1% secant.

j.  [Specimen Cutter]{.underline} - Sharp razor blade or razor device as
    described in method. A cutter that holds two razor blades exactly
    one inch apart is ideal.

k.  [Cutti]{.underline}[ng Mat]{.underline} - Self-healing cutting mat
    with surface in good condition. May be purchased at
    [www.mcmaster.com](http://WWW.McMASTER.COM/), Part No. 70875A66,
    Cage No. 39428.

4.5.4.2 [Samples]{.underline} -- The following test specimens are
required for this procedure. It is advisable to cut more specimens than
required in case re-testing is required. Specimens that show wrinkling,
nicks or roughness along the cut edges or other damage must not be used
for testing.

a.  Five (5) specimens 1 by 12 inches cut in the machine direction.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
l.  Five (5) specimens 1 by 12 inches cut in the transverse direction.

4.5.4.3 [Conditioning]{.underline} -- Specimens are to be conditioned in
accordance with section 7.1 of ASTM D882. Insure that adequate air
circulation is present on all sides.

4.5.4.4 [Test Procedure]{.underline}

a.  Cut the specimens out of the roll using a razor blade cutter over a
    self-healing cutting mat. Dies and other cutting mechanisms do not
    produce a smooth enough cut and must not be used.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
m.  Use a felt tipped marker to place the sample identification on each
    specimen. This marking should be on the end of the specimen where it
    won't alter the test results.

n.  Set grip spacing on the universal testing machine to 10 inches to a
    tolerance of ± 0.1 inch.

o.  Place the film specimen in the upper grip and carefully align the
    specimen to remove all wrinkles before closing the lower grip.

p.  Verify that the specimen is straight and taut between the grips with
    no wrinkles and a maximum of 0.05 pounds of load on the specimen.

q.  Run the test at a crosshead speed of 1 inch per minute while
    continuously recording load and extension.

r.  The test may be stopped once the specimen is pulled beyond 3% strain
    (0.3 inches of extension).

s.  Adjust for toe compensation as described in Annex A1 of the test
    method. Essentially the X-axis (strain) needs to be shifted so that
    the initial portion (after removal of the toe) of the stress-strain
    curve passes through the origin.

t.  Locate the point on the stress-strain curve where it reaches 1%
    strain on the corrected X-axis and record the corresponding Y-axis
    value (stress) in psi.

u.  Calculate the secant modulus at 1% strain by dividing the Y-axis
    value (psi) found in the last step by 0.01. This calculation is NOT
    the same as the standard Young's Modulus calculated by most tensile
    testing software packages.

v.  Measure a total of five specimens in both the machine and transverse
    direction and report five tensile modulus results and a mean for
    each direction on the test report data sheet.

4.5.5 [Nominal Gauge]{.underline} -- The following test procedure is
intended to supplement, but not replace, ASTM test method D374. Full
understanding and compliance with all requirements of ASTM D374 is
required to provide accurate test results.

4.5.5.1 [Equipment]{.underline} -- As specified in ASTM D374 test method
A, B, C, or D.

a.  Accuracy -- 0.0005 inches or better.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
w.  Uncertainty -- 0.0010 inches or better.

4.5.5.2 [Samples]{.underline} - The following test specimens are
required for this procedure. It is advisable to cut more specimens than
required in case re-testing is required. Specimens that show wrinkling
or other damage must not be used for testing.

a.  Three (3) specimens 0.5 by 0.5 inches or larger.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
x.  Specimens are to be cut from the roll at least a distance of 6
    inches from each other and at least 1 inch from the edge of the
    roll.

4.5.5.3 [Conditioning]{.underline} -- Specimens are to be conditioned at
23±2°C (73.4 ± 3.6°), 50±5% relative humidity for a minimum of 40 hours
prior to testing. Insure that adequate air circulation is present on all
sides.

4.5.5.4 [Test Procedure]{.underline}

a.  Cut specimens out of the roll using care to handle only the edges so
    that the center of each specimen remains clean and undamaged.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
y.  Use a felt tipped marker to place the sample identification on the
    specimen. This label should be at the edge of the specimen where it
    won't alter test results.

z.  Measure a total of three specimens and report three gauge results
    and a mean for each sample on the test result data sheet.

4.5.6 [Blocking]{.underline} -- The following test procedure is intended
to supplement, but not replace, ASTM test method D3354. Full
understanding and compliance with all requirements of ASTM D3354 is
required to provide accurate test results.

4.5.6.1 [Equipment]{.underline} -- As specified in ASTM D3354 test
method, Procedure B.

a.  [Test Apparatus]{.underline} -- Constant rate of separation device,
    ASTM D3354, section 6.4.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
a.  [Load recording system]{.underline} -- Capacity of 200 grams or more
    above tare weight. Accuracy of ±5 grams or better is required and is
    not specified in the method.

b.  [Platens]{.underline} -- Upper and lower platens made of aluminum as
    specified in method. Thickness of platens may be less than the 3.0
    inches (76 mm) specified in the test method as long as they are
    stiff enough to not flex during testing. The upper platen and
    attachment system should be as light as possible and in no case more
    than 400 grams. Blocking surfaces of the aluminum platens may be
    roughened with 60 grit sand paper to help the platens separate more
    smoothly.

c.  [Glass Plates]{.underline} -- Borosilicate glass, 4 x 4 x 0.125
    inches. May be purchased at
    [www.mcmaster.com](http://WWW.McMASTER.COM/) , Part No. 8476K14,
    Cage No. 39428

d.  [Paper]{.underline} -- Copy paper, 20 pound weight, 8.5 by 11
    inches. Cut into 4.5 by 7.5 inch rectangles.

4.5.6.2 [Samples]{.underline} - The following test specimens are
required for this procedure. It is advisable to cut more specimens than
required in case re-testing is required. Specimens that show wrinkling
or other damage must not be used for testing.

a.  Ten (10) specimens 4 by 7 inches.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
e.  Specimens shall be cut with the long dimension parallel to the
    machine direction.

4.5.6.3 [Conditioning]{.underline} - Specimens are to be conditioned in
accordance with section 8.1 of ASTM D3354. Insure that adequate air
circulation is present on all sides and that each specimen is separate
and not in contact with any other specimen during conditioning.

4.5.6.4 [Test Procedure]{.underline}

a.  Cut specimens out of the roll using care to handle only the edges so
    that the center of each specimen remains clean and undamaged.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
f.  Use a felt tipped marker to place the sample identification on the
    NON-TREATED SIDE, if applicable, of the specimen. This label should
    be at the edge of the specimen where it won't alter test results.

g.  Lightly pass a lint free cloth over the treated surface of each
    specimen to remove any dust or lint which may be present. Do not
    wipe heavily as it could remove any surface treatment.

h.  Take two specimens and sandwich them together with the treated sides
    of each specimen, if applicable, facing inward. Repeat with all
    remaining specimens.

i.  Put a 4.5 by 7.5 inch sheet of copy paper between each pair of
    specimens and sandwich the whole stack between two glass plates.
    Insure that there is a sheet of paper between the lowermost specimen
    and the glass and between the uppermost specimen and the glass.

j.  Place the stack onto an oven safe tray and place a 4 pound weight on
    the top of the stack resulting in a 0.25 psi stress in the stack.
    The weight must be sized such that an even distribution of the load
    through the glass plate is assured.

k.  Label the top of the stack with the sample identification using a
    felt tipped marker.

l.  Load the weighted stack and tray into an oven pre-heated to 60±2°C
    (140 ± 3.6°) and heat for 24 hours.

m.  Remove the stack from the oven after the 24 hour period and allow to
    cool for 1 hour. Remove the weight but leave the glass plates in
    place while cooling.

n.  After one hour the specimens can be removed from the stack and
    tested. Make sure that all specimens are tested between 1 and 2
    hours after removal from the oven. If several samples are tested at
    one time it will be necessary to stagger the start times so that all
    specimens can be tested between 1 and 2 hours after removal from the
    oven.

o.  Tare the blocking load tester by zeroing the load while the upper
    platen is hanging freely.

p.  Place two specimens together onto the lower platen of the blocking
    load tester using care not to disturb any bond between the
    specimens.

q.  Lower the upper platen of the blocking tester onto the two specimens
    and make sure the upper platen is aligned with the lower platen.
    Prevent the upper block from moving with light hand pressure while
    performing the next 2 steps.

r.  Wrap the ends of the bottom specimen around the lower platen and
    secure to the platen with tape. Make sure that the film specimens
    remain in contact with each other and any bond between them is not
    disturbed during this step.

s.  Wrap the ends of the top specimen around the upper platen and secure
    to the platen with tape. Make sure that the film specimens remain in
    contact with each other and any bond between them is not disturbed
    during this step.

t.  Run the test at 0.2 inch per minute while continuously recording
    load as the two specimens are pulled apart.

u.  The test may be stopped once the specimens are completely separated,
    the distance between the platens exceeds 0.75 inch, or the maximum
    load capacity of the load recording system is exceeded.

v.  Record the maximum load in grams required to separate the specimens.
    This step is a deviation from the ASTM D3354 method that requires
    reporting the average load.

w.  Report a total of five blocking load measurements and a mean for
    each sample on the test result data sheet.

4.5.7 [Static Charge]{.underline} -- Because the measurement and
analysis of electrostatic charge is a somewhat esoteric science and
because industrial applications for such measurement and analysis can be
quite unique, as is that found within the US Postal Service, the
following test procedure has been designed to replicate, in a controlled
laboratory environment and within the limitations of such a laboratory
environment, the environmental, operational and mechanical conditions
encountered by polywrapped flat mail during automated mail processing.
While this procedure is loosely based on ASTM\
D4470 that standard test method should only be considered as a guide to
understanding the underlying principles. The following procedure should
be considered the governing document for this test.

4.5.7.1 [Equipment]{.underline} -- The following test instrumentation is
required to perform this test.

a.  Charged Plate Monitor: This instrument may be either an integrated
    charged plate monitor or it may be constructed using an
    electrostatic voltmeter or static field meter in conjunction with a
    charged plate detector. The instrument should be capable of
    measuring at least ±5kV.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
x.  Detector Plate: Standard charged plate monitors have a 6 inch x 6
    inch aluminum or stainless steel detector plate. For the purpose of
    this test procedure a 12 x 12 inch stainless steel detector plate is
    required.\
    The plate must be isolated from ground having a resistance to ground
    greater than 1 x 10^13^ Ohms. This plate should be connected to the
    plate of the CPM using Teflon wire.

y.  In lieu of the above test apparatus, a commercially available test
    system may be used to perform the recommended tests.

z.  A standard ESD ground strap.

a.  15 pound weights, approximately 8 by 10 inches. Three are required
    for each sample to be tested.

b.  Eighteen (18) lined paper tablets with the following specifications:
    Recycled, glue-top pads, 15 lb paper, 28-pt cardboard backing, 50
    sheets per pad. Acceptable pads are AMPAD EVIDENCE brand, or
    equivalent, available from office supply stores.

4.5.7.2 [Test Environment]{.underline} - The samples shall be
conditioned and tested in a controlled environment maintained at 12±3%
RH and 73±5°F (22±3°C). The samples shall be placed in this environment
a minimum of 48 hours prior to test.

4.5.7.3 [Sample Preparation]{.underline} - A total of 18 test specimens
per film type are to be fabricated. Cut a 15 inch length of film from
the roll. Place the tablet of paper on the film with the 8.5 inch side
along the 15 inch axis. Fold the film around the tablet and secure with
a minimum amount of transparent adhesive tape. Leave a 1 inch tab at the
open end for grasping the sample for the pull test.

4.5.7.4 [Test Procedure]{.underline}

a.  Form 3 stacks of 6 specimens each. Place a 15 pound weight on each
    stack for 24 hours prior to testing.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
c.  Turn on test equipment and allow it to warm up in accordance with
    the manufacturer's instructions.

d.  Ground the detector plate. The voltage readout should be 0±10V.

e.  Remove the weight from the first stack. Place the stack onto the 12
    by 12 inch detector plate.

f.  Place wrist strap onto the hand not used to pull the samples. The
    other end should be connected to ground.

g.  Remove the ground from the detector plate.

h.  Immediately grasp the tab of the top sample and pull it away using a
    rapid constant motion.

i.  Report the absolute value of the peak voltage on the test result
    data sheet.

j.  Ground the plate then repeat the last 3 steps for the next 4
    specimens. The last specimen in the stack is not to be measured.

k.  Repeat the above procedure for the remaining 2 stacks.

l.  Calculate the average of all 30 voltage measurements. Report this
    value on the test result data sheet.

5\. PREPARATION FOR DELIVERY

This section is not applicable to this specification.

6\. NOTES

This section is not applicable to this specification.

**APPENDIX A**

TEST PROCEDURES FOR

AUTOMATABLE POLYWRAP FILMS

10\. Scope

10.1 [Scope]{.underline} -- This appendix covers a list of independent
testing laboratories that have been approved by the USPS to perform the
tests set forth in this specification.

10.1.1 [Laboratories Approved for Requirements 3.1.1 through
3.1.7]{.underline}

> Plastics Technology Laboratories Inc.
>
> 50 Pearl Street
>
> Pittsfield, MA 01201
>
> \(413\) 499-0983
>
> [[www.ptli.com]{.underline}](../www.ptli.com)
>
> Advanced Plastic and Material Testing Inc.
>
> 42 Dutch Mill Road
>
> Ithaca, NY 14850
>
> \(607\) 257-8378
>
> [[www.**apmtesting**.com]{.underline}](../www.apmtesting.com)
>
> Plastiscience LLC
>
> 73 Artisan Drive
>
> Smyrna, DE 19977
>
> \(302\) 659-3032
>
> [[www.**plastiscience**.com]{.underline}](../www.plastiscience.com)
>
> Datapoint Labs
>
> 95 Brown Road, #102
>
> Ithaca, NY 14850
>
> \(607\) 266-0405
>
> [[www.**datapointlabs**.com]{.underline}](../www.datapointlabs.com)

10.1.2 [Laboratories Approved for Requirement 3.1.8]{.underline}

> Electro-Tech Systems Inc.
>
> 3101 Mt. Carmel Ave.
>
> Glenside, PA 19038
>
> \(215\) 887-2196
>
> [[www.**electrotechsystems**.com]{.underline}](../www.electrotechsystems.com)

20\. APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS

This section is not applicable to this appendix.

**APPENDIX B**

TEST PROCEDURES FOR

AUTOMATABLE POLYWRAP FILMS

10\. Scope

10.1 [Scope]{.underline} -- This appendix covers the format to be used
for reporting test results in accordance with section 4.5 of
USPS-T-3204. The following pages contain the test result data sheets.

20\. APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS

This section is not applicable to this appendix.

![](media/image2.wmf){width="6.55625in" height="8.152083333333334in"}

![](media/image3.wmf){width="6.43125in" height="4.842361111111111in"}