sample preparation for Lab test: cooling down hot cured rubber in water is a proper way?

[pqlong05]

After pressing, we put the hot test plates immediately in water to cool it down to 30oC and save time. Is this a proper way?
Need your help. Thanks

 

[GrahamBennett]

If I remember correctly, ISO, BS and ASTM standards all call for the test sheets to be conditioned at room temperature for 24 hours before testing.

 

[tom1953]

ASTM D3182 (... Preparing Standard Vulcanized Sheets) indicates "as soon as the press is opened, remove the vulcanized sheets from the mold and cool in water (room temperature or lower) or on a metal surface (for items used for electrical measurements) for 10 to 15 minutes". Then, condition from 16-96 hours at RT before testing.

 

[stancom]

Just to add to Tom's comment, the equivalent International Standard is ISO 2393. It also allows for the mould to be water cooled before opening. I was involved with the preparation of the standard but our press room seldom bothered to quench in water unless there was a very peaky cure.