DIN EN ISO 11092 Determination of thermal and evaporative resistance
The determination of thermal and evaporative resistance (DIN EN ISO 11092) is a crucial aspect in the textile testing sector, particularly for materials used in apparel, footwear, and technical textiles. This standard is essential for ensuring that fabrics meet specific requirements regarding breathability and moisture management.
The test measures how effectively a fabric allows moisture to evaporate from the skin of the wearer to the outside environment. This parameter is critical because it directly impacts the thermal comfort of the garment, which in turn affects user satisfaction and performance during physical activities or in varying environmental conditions.
Thermal resistance (R-value) and evaporative resistance (RE-value) are two key parameters derived from this test. R-value quantifies how well a material resists heat transfer, while RE-value measures the ability of moisture to pass through the fabric. These values help manufacturers understand the thermal and evaporative performance of their products.
The test involves subjecting specimens cut according to specific dimensions (typically 150 mm x 150 mm) to controlled conditions in a climate chamber. The specimen is placed between two plates that form an air gap, with one plate being the cold side and the other the warm side. A steady airflow is maintained across the specimen.
The test protocol requires precise control of environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, and airflow rate. The specimens are conditioned in a climatic chamber at 20°C ± 1°C and relative humidity of 65% ± 3%. After conditioning, the specimens are tested for thermal resistance using a heat flux meter with a reference area of 150 mm x 150 mm.
The test setup ensures that the specimen is exposed to controlled conditions over time, allowing for accurate measurement of both R-value and RE-value. The results provide valuable insights into how well the fabric can manage moisture and maintain thermal comfort under various environmental conditions.
Understanding these parameters is particularly important in sectors like sportswear, where athletes require garments that enhance performance by managing sweat effectively. In outdoor gear manufacturing, this test ensures that clothing provides adequate insulation while allowing for necessary ventilation to prevent overheating or excessive moisture build-up.
| Parameter | Description | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Thermal Resistance (R-value) | Measure of the fabric’s ability to resist heat transfer. | W/m²K |
| Evaporative Resistance (RE-value) | Measure of the fabric’s breathability, or its ability to allow moisture to pass through it. | kg/m²·h |
Why It Matters
The results of the DIN EN ISO 11092 test are critical for several reasons. In apparel and footwear manufacturing, ensuring that fabrics have the appropriate breathability and thermal resistance is essential for enhancing user comfort and performance.
Incorporating these parameters into product development helps manufacturers create garments that perform well in various environments without compromising on style or functionality. For example, active wear companies use this test to ensure that their products maintain optimal thermal insulation during winter sports while allowing moisture to escape efficiently during summer activities.
For quality managers and compliance officers, the test provides a standardized method for assessing product performance against industry standards. This ensures consistency across batches and helps meet regulatory requirements. For R&D engineers, this test is invaluable in optimizing fabric design and material selection. By understanding how different fabrics perform under controlled conditions, they can innovate to create more effective and comfortable products.
From a commercial perspective, ensuring that products meet breathability and moisture management standards enhances brand reputation and customer satisfaction. Retailers can confidently market their products as premium or performance-oriented based on these test results, which in turn attracts discerning consumers seeking high-quality apparel and footwear.
Applied Standards
The DIN EN ISO 11092 standard is widely recognized for its comprehensive approach to measuring thermal and evaporative resistance. It provides a standardized method that can be universally applied across different industries, ensuring consistent results.
This international standard has been adopted by various sectors, including apparel manufacturing, technical textiles, and footwear production. Compliance with this standard ensures that products meet the required performance levels for breathability and moisture management.
The standard specifies precise procedures, apparatus requirements, specimen preparation methods, and acceptance criteria to ensure accurate testing results. It emphasizes the importance of controlled environmental conditions during testing, which includes temperature, humidity, and airflow rates.
By adhering to these standards, manufacturers can demonstrate their commitment to quality and reliability, which is essential for maintaining market credibility and customer trust. The use of this standard also facilitates easier compliance with international regulations governing textile products.
Industry Applications
The following table highlights some key applications across different industries:
| Industry Sector | Application Specificity |
|---|---|
| Apparel Manufacturing | Evaluating breathability and thermal resistance of sportswear, casual wear, and outdoor gear. |
| Footwear Production | Determining how well the insole or upper material manages moisture to ensure comfort during prolonged use. |
| Tech Textiles | Assessing breathability and thermal resistance of materials used in military, medical, and industrial textiles. |
