EN ISO 13936 Determination of Pilling Resistance in Fabrics
The determination of pilling resistance according to EN ISO 13936 is a critical procedure for ensuring the durability and quality of textile products. This test assesses how resistant fabrics are to forming pills, which are small, fuzzy balls that form on fabric surfaces when fibers become loose due to wear or friction.
Pills can negatively impact the appearance and functionality of textiles, especially in high-wear areas such as clothing, upholstery, and carpets. The pilling resistance test evaluates how effectively a fabric resists this undesirable effect by measuring the number and size of pills that form after mechanical abrasion.
This standard is widely used across various sectors including fashion, home furnishings, automotive interiors, and medical textiles. It ensures that fabrics meet durability requirements set by manufacturers, buyers, and regulatory bodies. By adhering to EN ISO 13936, companies can maintain a high level of customer satisfaction while ensuring compliance with industry standards.
The test method involves subjecting the fabric sample to specified mechanical abrasion cycles using a pilling tester. The resulting pills are then visually inspected according to standardized criteria to determine their count and size. This process provides valuable insights into the fabric's durability, helping textile developers optimize material choices for specific applications.
Understanding the principles behind this test is essential for quality managers, compliance officers, R&D engineers, and procurement professionals involved in textile manufacturing processes. It enables them to make informed decisions about raw materials, processing techniques, and end-use applications, ultimately leading to more resilient and aesthetically pleasing products.
The EN ISO 13936 standard has been adopted globally due to its reliability and consistency across different laboratories. Its widespread acceptance underscores the importance of this test in maintaining high-quality standards within the textile industry. As a service provider, our laboratory adheres strictly to these guidelines to deliver accurate and reproducible results.
| Test Parameters | Description |
|---|---|
| Test Specimen | The fabric sample should be cut into a square of at least 150 mm × 150 mm. It must be free from defects and representative of the fabric in question. |
| Abrasion Cycles | The specimen undergoes mechanical abrasion using a pilling tester according to specified conditions, typically involving friction between two surfaces at defined speeds and pressures. |
| Inspection Criteria | After the test, the fabric is visually inspected for pills. The count and size are recorded based on predefined standards. |
The accuracy of these tests is crucial in maintaining quality control throughout the manufacturing process. Our laboratory uses advanced equipment and trained personnel to ensure that each test adheres precisely to EN ISO 13936 requirements. This attention to detail guarantees reliable, consistent results that are essential for meeting both internal quality standards and external regulatory expectations.
Scope and Methodology
The scope of the EN ISO 13936 test is confined to determining the pilling resistance of textile fabrics. This includes woven, knitted, and non-woven materials used in various applications such as clothing, upholstery, and industrial textiles.
- Woven Fabrics: These are produced by interlacing threads at right angles to form a grid-like structure.
- Knitted Fabrics: Characterized by loops of yarn that interlock to create flexible garments or other products.
- Non-Woven Fabrics: Fabricated through processes like bonding fibers together using heat, chemicals, or mechanical means.
The methodology involves several key steps:
- Sample Preparation: Fabric samples are cut to standard dimensions and prepared according to the specified procedures in EN ISO 13936.
- Abrasion Testing: The sample is subjected to mechanical abrasion using a pilling tester. This simulates real-world conditions of wear and tear.
- Pill Inspection: After testing, the fabric is inspected for pills both visually and quantitatively according to predefined criteria.
The standard provides detailed instructions on sample preparation, test parameters, and inspection methods to ensure consistent results across different laboratories. Compliance with these procedures ensures accurate measurement of pilling resistance, which is vital for maintaining product quality and meeting customer expectations.
Quality and Reliability Assurance
The reliability of the EN ISO 13936 test is paramount in ensuring that textile products meet stringent durability standards. Our laboratory employs rigorous quality control measures to maintain the highest level of accuracy and consistency in our testing processes.
We use state-of-the-art equipment calibrated regularly to ensure precise measurements. Our experienced technicians are trained to follow the standard procedures meticulously, minimizing human error. Additionally, we participate in proficiency testing programs recognized by international standards bodies, which further validate our laboratory's capabilities.
Our commitment to quality is reflected in our ISO 9001 accreditation and adherence to strict calibration protocols. By leveraging these resources, we can provide clients with confidence that their test results are reliable and actionable.
In addition to technical expertise, we also offer comprehensive support services such as consultation on sample preparation, interpretation of results, and recommendations for improving fabric performance. Our goal is not only to meet but exceed expectations through our unwavering dedication to excellence in textile testing.
Use Cases and Application Examples
- Clothing Manufacturers: Ensuring that garments maintain their appearance and functionality over time by selecting fabrics with high pilling resistance.
- Automotive Interior Suppliers: Developing upholstery materials that withstand the harsh conditions inside vehicles, including sun exposure and frequent cleaning.
- Furniture Manufacturers: Creating comfortable and durable seating products for home and commercial settings.
- Medical Textile Developers: Designing garments and accessories that are both hygienic and long-lasting in hospital environments.
The results of the EN ISO 13936 test can influence various aspects of product development, from initial material selection to final quality assurance checks. By incorporating these insights early on, manufacturers can enhance their products' market appeal and competitive edge.
For example, a clothing manufacturer might use this information to select fabrics that are less prone to pilling for casual wear items like T-shirts or sweaters. Alternatively, an automotive supplier could focus on developing upholstery materials that retain their appearance even after extensive use under challenging conditions.
