How is the durability of fabrics used in upholstery tested?

The durability of upholstery fabrics is crucial as these fabrics need to withstand repeated use, friction, and environmental conditions while maintaining their appearance and performance. Several testing methods and equipment are used to assess various durability aspects, including abrasion resistance, tearing, and colorfastness. Here are the main testing methods:

1. Abrasion Resistance Testing:

• Purpose: Measures the fabric’s ability to resist wear and tear due to friction.
• Testing Equipment:
  • Martindale Abrasion Tester or Taber Abrasion Tester.
  • In this test, the fabric is rubbed against an abrasive surface under controlled conditions to simulate the wear caused by regular use.
  • The fabric is evaluated for the number of rubs it can withstand before showing signs of damage, such as pilling or surface wear.
• Application: Critical for upholstery fabrics like those used in sofas, chairs, and other furniture that undergo frequent use.

2. Tensile Strength and Tear Resistance Testing:

• Purpose: Assesses the fabric’s ability to resist tearing or breaking when pulled or subjected to stress.
• Testing Equipment:
  • Tensile Testing Machine (e.g., Instron Testing Machine) to measure the force required to break the fabric.
  • Elmendorf Tear Tester or Tear Strength Tester to assess the force needed to tear the fabric once it has been punctured.
• Application: Important for fabrics used in upholstery that may experience stress due to weight, seating, or general use.

3. Pilling Resistance Testing:

• Purpose: Tests how well the fabric resists the formation of small fabric balls (pills) that can form on the surface from abrasion.
• Testing Equipment:
  • Pilling Tester (e.g., Martindale Pilling Tester) to simulate fabric wear and measure the degree of pilling.
• Application: Ensures that upholstery fabrics retain their smooth appearance and comfort after long-term use.

4. Colorfastness to Light and Washing:

• Purpose: Evaluates how well the fabric maintains its color after exposure to light, washing, or rubbing.
• Testing Equipment:
  • Xenon Arc Tester for light exposure and launderometer or washing machine for textiles for washing tests.
  • Gray Scale for color change and lightfastness rating.
• Application: Important for ensuring the fabric’s aesthetic quality remains intact for a long time, especially in brightly colored or patterned upholstery.

5. Flex Durability Testing:

• Purpose: Simulates the repeated folding and creasing of upholstery fabrics that occur in use.
• Testing Equipment:
  • Flex Tester (e.g., Wyzenbeek Flex Tester) repeatedly flexes the fabric in a controlled manner to simulate seating and movement.
• Application: Tests fabrics used for upholstered furniture to ensure they don’t crack or lose their structural integrity after constant movement.

6. Flammability Testing:

• Purpose: Determines how easily a fabric will ignite and how quickly flames spread across its surface.
• Testing Equipment:
  • Flame Tester (e.g., ASTM D6413 or Cal Prop 65 for flammability).
  • This test evaluates the burning behavior of the fabric when exposed to an open flame.
• Application: Critical for upholstery used in public spaces, such as theaters, airplanes, and offices, where fire safety standards must be met.

7. Environmental Resistance Testing:

• Purpose: Assesses the fabric’s resistance to environmental conditions like humidity, temperature, and exposure to chemicals or oils.
• Testing Equipment:
  • Accelerated Weathering Tester or Xenon Arc Tester to simulate environmental exposure.
• Application: Ensures the fabric will perform well in a variety of conditions, including exposure to sunlight and humidity in both home and commercial settings.

8. Surface Texture and Comfort Testing:

• Purpose: Assesses how the fabric feels to the touch and its ability to retain texture and softness over time.
• Testing Equipment:
  • Surface Profilometer to measure the texture and smoothness of the fabric.
• Application: Important for upholstery fabrics where tactile comfort plays a significant role in consumer choice.

By conducting these tests, manufacturers can ensure that upholstery fabrics meet the durability standards required for their specific use, providing long-lasting comfort and performance.