Laboratory Testing: When Is Testing Needed?
Laboratory Testing: When Is Testing Needed?
Laboratory Testing: When Is Testing Needed?
Laboratory testing
When is testing needed?
· Requested by customer
· New Fabric - all new fabrics must be submitted for a full fabric test at development stage and at bulk shipment
stage.
· New Supplier - when using a new supplier or fabric mill, all fabrics must be tested until they have proven
that their standards are consistent and acceptable.
· Repeat fabric (i.e. frequently used fabric) - in a new color.
When is testing not needed?
· Repeat Fabric (i.e. frequently used fabric) - in the same color as run before and with the same supplier / fabric
mill. (even with this fabric, spot checks must be made approximately every 4 shipments)
Mandatory test
· The merchandisers need to make sure the fabrics and garments are tested before cutting, according to the
requirements of the customer. Any failed results or concerns need to be discussed with QA and QC immediately.
Minimum performance requirements
All fabrics & garments must adhere to certain minimum performance requirements. For most buyers
these requirements are dictated by their testing requirements. For those customers who do not require
testing, the minimum performance standards should be enforced.
Minimum Performance Requirements
Test Description Test Method Minimum Performance Requirements
Dimensional stability to Laundering AATCC 135/150 Woven fabrics: +/- 3% max. Knitted fabrics: +/- 5%
max.
Dimensional stability to Dry Cleaning AATCC 158 Woven fabrics: +/- 3% max. Knitted fabrics: +/- 3%
max.
Tear strength ASTM 1424 Blouse: 1.5 lbs Pyjamas/lining: 1.8 lbs
Shirt/dress/skirt/outerwear: 2.0 lbs
Trousers/shorts/overall/pocketing: 2.5 lbs
Bursting strength ASTM D3786 Fabric: 40 lbs /sq. inch, Seam: 35 lbs /sq. inch,
Pilling resistance ASTM 3512 3.5
– 30 minutes
Fiber content AATCC 20/20A +/- 3% tolerance for blends; No tolerance for single
fiber