How can you test textile performance for durability?

1 Abrasion Test

An abrasion test measures how much a fabric can withstand rubbing against another surface, such as a table, a zipper, or a human body. This test can simulate different types of abrasion, such as flat, flex, or edge abrasion. The most widely used abrasion test is the Martindale test, which uses a circular motion and a standard wool fabric as the abradant. The test results are expressed in cycles, which indicate how many times the fabric can be rubbed before it shows signs of damage, such as holes, fuzziness, or color loss.

2 Pilling Test

A pilling test evaluates how likely a fabric is to form small balls of fibers on its surface, which can affect its appearance and texture. Pilling is caused by friction, agitation, or washing, and it depends on factors such as fiber type, yarn structure, fabric construction, and finishing. There are different methods to test pilling, such as the random tumble pilling test, which uses a rotating chamber with corks to create pilling on the fabric samples. The test results are rated based on a visual comparison with standard photographs of different pilling levels.

3 Colorfastness Test

A colorfastness test assesses how well a fabric can retain its color when exposed to various agents, such as light, water, perspiration, bleach, or dry cleaning. Colorfastness is important for maintaining the aesthetic appeal and value of garments, as well as preventing color bleeding or staining. There are different standards and methods to test colorfastness, such as the ISO 105 or the AATCC 61, which use different instruments and conditions to expose the fabric samples to the selected agents. The test results are measured by comparing the color change or transfer of the samples with a gray scale or a chromatic scale.

4 Dimensional Stability Test

A dimensional stability test determines how much a fabric can change its shape or size when subjected to various treatments, such as washing, drying, ironing, or steaming. Dimensional stability is important for ensuring the fit and functionality of garments, as well as avoiding shrinkage, stretching, or distortion. There are different methods to test dimensional stability, such as the ISO 5077 or the AATCC 135, which use different machines and procedures to wash and dry the fabric samples. The test results are calculated by measuring the percentage of change in length and width of the samples before and after the treatments.

5 Tensile Strength Test

A tensile strength test measures how much force a fabric can withstand before it breaks or tears. Tensile strength is important for evaluating the durability and performance of fabrics under stress, such as pulling, stretching, or hanging. There are different methods to test tensile strength, such as the ASTM D5034 or the ISO 13934, which use different devices and configurations to apply a force on the fabric samples until they rupture. The test results are expressed in units of force, such as newtons, or in units of stress, such as megapascals.

6 Tips for Testing Textile Performance for Durability

Testing textile performance for durability is essential for fashion design projects, quality control, and customer satisfaction. To conduct effective and reliable tests, you should follow the standard methods and procedures for each test, using the appropriate instruments and equipment. Test representative samples of your fabrics in different directions and locations, such as warp, weft, or bias. Compare your test results with the specifications and requirements of your fabrics, as well as industry standards and benchmarks. Record and document your test results, analyzing them for any patterns, trends, or anomalies. Finally, communicate and share your test results with suppliers, manufacturers, and customers to make informed decisions and improvements.

7 Here’s what else to consider

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