Exploring ASTM tests for fabric strength.
From clothing and bedding to furniture and industrial applications, textiles are an integral part of our lives. Hence, strength and durability are critical factors to ensure their performance and safety. To maintain the quality of these fabrics, manufacturers and researchers rely on certain standardized testing methods developed by leading testing agencies.
One such international organization that develops and publishes technical standards for various materials, including textiles is the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).
ASTM develops and publishes technical standards for various textile materials. These standards establish common testing methodologies, ensuring consistency and reliability in evaluating fabric properties. The organization has formulated several tests to evaluate fabric strength. Each of these tests focuses on different aspects of fabric strength.
Tests to evaluate tensile strength and elongation
Tensile strength refers to the force required to break a fabric sample. This is the fundamental measure of fabric strength. To determine the tensile strength of the fabric, ASTM has introduced D5034, ‘Standard Test Method for Breaking Strength and Elongation of Textile Fabrics (Grab Test). This test measures the fabric strength inserting the fabric sample in a tensile testing machine and applying a pulling force until it breaks. More the force required to break the fabric, greater is its tensile strength. This strength is typically measured in Newtons (N) or pounds-force (lbf). The test is also used to measure the fabric elongation that indicates how much the fabric stretches before breaking, expressed as a percentage.
Determining seam strength
Known as the weakest points in a garment or textile products, seam strength is measured using ASTM D1683. This test measures the force required to break a sewn seam. For this, force is applied in a perpendicular angle to the fabric specimen placed in a tensile testing machine. Force is applied to the fabric until its seam breaks. The test helps assess the seam’s quality and identify potential weaknesses in construction techniques.
Assessing tear resistance
To evaluate the tear resistance of a fabric, manufacturers employ ASTM D1004, ‘Standard Test Method for Initial Tear Resistance of Plastic Film and Sheeting,’ and ASTM D5587, ‘Standard Test Method for Tearing Strength of Fabrics by Trapezoid Procedure. For this, they create a controlled tear in the fabric using a standardized method and measure the force required to propagate the tear. Higher the tear resistance value more is fabric's ability to withstand rips and punctures.
Beyond basic strength
Besides the abovementioned tests, ASTM also offers additional tests for specific applications. For instance, it employs the ASTM D6242, ‘Standard Test Method for Puncture Resistance of Fabrics with a Balloon Catheter Puncture Apparatus,’ to evaluate the puncture resistance of a fabric to be used for medical purposes, such as surgical gowns.
Benefits of ASTM testing
These are several benefits of using ASTM standards for fabric strength. These include:
- Ensure consistent test results:These tests ensure comparable results across different laboratories and production runs.
- Increased communication within industry. These tests facilitate communication within the textile industry. It enables manufacturers, suppliers and consumers to understand each other’s terminology by referencing common test methods. Finally, ASTM testing helps identify a fabric’s weaknesses and guides improvements in fiber selection, weaving techniques, and finishing processes.
- Standard quality:Fabric manufacturers can leverage these tests to ensure their products meet specific strength requirements.
- Boost consumer confidence:ASTM quality tests play a vital role in ensuring the strength and durability of fabrics. By employing these standardized tests, manufacturers can produce high-quality textiles that meet performance expectations and provide consumers with confidence in their purchases.