Testing of Physical Properties

The lab is equipped to measure the following physical properties of protective clothing fabrics:

• Abrasion resistance
• Flex cracking resistance
• Puncture resistance
• Tensile strength
• Seam Tensile strength
• Trapezoidal Tear resistance

All samples are conditioned for 24 hours prior to testing.

Where machine and cross direction is not indicated on a fabric, A and B will be ascribed to vertical and horizontal directions. Two sets of samples will be taken at 90° to each other in line with the textile backing. Where there is no textile backing or the weave cannot be seen, A and B directions will be ascribed at 90° to each other.

In the case of testing whole garments, the assumption is made that all panels within the garment have been cut in the same direction. A and B directions are ascribed at 90° to each other, vertical and horizontal as the suit is worn.

Please visit the UKAS web site at www.ukas.org for a schedule of the tests which the lab is accredited to perform.