Tensile Strength Test Equipment in the Textile Industry
Introduction
Tensile Strength Test is a crucial test that determines the strength and durability of textiles. Imagine you’re at a party in your favorite shirt. Then, while hugging a friend, it tears at the elbow or underarm. So here, tensile strength comes in.
The tensile strength test is key in textile engineering. It measures the strength and elasticity of fabrics and fibers by applying a controlled force to a sample.
We can determine its breaking point, elongation, and performance under stress. This method is for woven fabric only. It does not work for knit or non-woven fabrics.
A tensile strength test machine measures a fabric’s tensile stress capacity. It can apply a load at a constant rate of extension and record the load at which the specimen breaks down.
Importance of Fabric Durability in Textile Engineering
Fabric durability means the fabric’s ability to resist wear and tear. It is important for the fabric’s long-term performance and aesthetic appearance.
Fabric durability is key for manufacturers and retailers. It helps them keep their brand reputation strong. It helps to win customer satisfaction and trust.
Fabric durability is cost-effective for the customer in the long run. It helps control fabric wastage by minimizing frequent purchases.
Textile resilience comes from the type of fiber, how it’s woven, and the chemical treatments used. It also depends on treatment and finishing.
Natural fibers feel comfortable, but they aren’t as durable as synthetic fibers. Researchers test them with tests such as abrasion, tear, and tensile strength tests.
Role of Tensile Strength in Textile Product Development
Tensile strength of a fabric means how much tensile force a fabric can bear without breaking. High tensile strength helps the fabric perform well under pressure and wear.
Fabric with high tensile strength can handle pulling forces well, so it is less likely to rip. Higher tensile strength enhances the fabric’s durability and sustainability for various applications.
The tensile strength of fabric relies on various factors. These include fiber type, weaving pattern, and heat-setting parameters. Finishing treatments, such as resin, water repellents, and UV finishes, also play a key role.
This parameter helps make ropes, seatbelts, parachutes, safety fabrics, sportswear, and workwear. Engineers measure tensile strength in pounds per square inch (psi).
Brief Overview of Tensile Testing Equipment in the Textile Sector
Tensile Testing Equipment in the Textile Sector
Tensile Testing Equipment and Materials Tested
Researchers use tensile testing equipment to see how strong fibers are when pulled. It works with natural fibers like cotton, wool, and silk. It also works with synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon, and glass fiber.
A Fabric tensile tester can measure the tensile stress of:
- Single yarn
- Threads
- Webbing
- Woven fabrics
A computerized tensile testing machine is a high-tech device. It measures how strong materials are when they are
Included are:
- Fabric
- HTP
- Polyethylene
- Woven materials
- Sachs
- Threads
- Yarns
- Plywood
- Metal
- Packaging materials
Components, Operation, and Key Considerations of Tensile Testing Machines
The main parts of a tensile strength testing machine include:
- A high-precision load cell measures force.
- Clamps hold the fabric specimen.
- A crosshead that pulls the specimen.
- A computer control system to run the test.
It operates by applying a controlled pull force to a sample until it breaks. A computer records data in real time and generates a report with all parameters and graphs.
You can test the 10 samples of the same quality. We will generate a summary report. This report saves itself on the computer. Industries use this machine a lot. It measures material properties, including tensile strength and elongation at break.
It helps industries follow international standards like ISO, ASTM, EN, JS, and DIN. Tensile testing equipment provides real-time data collection and analysis to reduce human errors.
There is a concern in the tensile strength test of textiles that the grips should not be too hard. When someone pulls the fabric, it may shift its position a small amount during stretching. So, if the fixture is too rigid, it can damage the sample.
To prevent this issue, the designers created a grip that allows for free movement. This way, it can achieve proper alignment of the specimen. It distributes the stretching force in a manner that ensures accurate results.
Tensile Testing Methods
Two types of testing methods, the Grab test and the Strip test, use a fabric tensile strength tester.
In the Grab Test method, the technician clamps the fabric sample at the center using a small jaw. Researchers use this test to avoid edge effects.
In the Strip Test method, the fabric specimen clamps through the edges of the sample. The jaws’ width is greater than the specimen’s width. This test includes the edge’s effect on stretching.
Engineers design tensile testers according to the guidelines of ASTM and ISO standards. Textiles have many qualities. That’s why there are different test standards for measuring their tensile strength.
What Is Fabric Tensile Strength and Why Does It Matter?
What Is Fabric Tensile Strength and Why Does It Matter?
Definition
Fabric tensile strength is the highest force a fabric can withstand before breaking.
Typical use cases: Garments, Technical Textiles, and Upholstery
The tensile strength of a fabric is an important factor in how well garments perform. It is the ability to resist wear and tear. This includes clothing, furniture, and protective gear.
A tensile strength test machine measures the tensile stress capacity of fabric. It can apply a load at a steady extension rate. It also records the load when the specimen breaks.
The type of fiber and the finishes used on fabrics or garments can affect the fabric’s strength. This, in turn, impacts how well it performs during wear. Let’s see the use case of tensile testing in textiles and upholstery.
1. Garments
In garment testing, tensile parameters are key. They help address wear and tear issues. High tensile strength fibers help the fabric hold up well in tough spots, such as the knees and elbows. Denim jeans, sportswear, and workwear are examples of strong fabrics.
2. Technical Textiles
Manufacturers compose technical textiles using very high-tensile-strength fibers.
Here are some examples:
- Industrial filters.
- Conveyor belts.
- Bulletproof jackets for safety.
- Surgical gloves in medical textiles.
- Civil engineers use geotextiles.
3. Upholstery
Tensile strength is important in upholstery for furniture, cars, and home décor. These items need normal to high tensile strength based on their use and application. Car seat material requires high tensile strength and abrasion resistance.
Consequences of Poor Tensile Strength in End Products
The poor tensile strength of the fabric leads to tears under normal forces. It causes premature wear and tear. Weak garments will not last long, hurting the brand’s reputation.
If customers are not satisfied, it will cause a loss of business. It can be difficult to meet industrial and international standards.
Brands like Zara and Levi’s have received complaints. The issue is poor tensile strength in their products. Using a low-quality blend causes this.
Understanding the Fabric Tensile Strength Test Method
Understanding the Fabric Tensile Strength Test Method
Fabric tensile strength test’s common standards are ASTM D5034 and ISO 13934. Tensile tests are generally performed in two methods. One is the Strip method, and the second is the Grab method.
The ASTM D5034 standard uses the grab test method. In this test, the technician clamps the fabric in the center of the specimen. The ISO 13934 standard uses the strip test method. In this test, we clamp a fabric sample at the edges.
Fabric Tensile Strength Test Method Using Modern Machinery
Fabric Tensile Strength Test Method Using Modern Machinery
1. Tensile Strength Testing Methods
Tensile strength tests are generally performed in two ways. One is the Strip method, and the second is the Grab method.
2. Apparatus and consumables required for the test
A constant rate extension tensile testing machine has rubber-faced jaws for clamping fabrics. It operates in a conditioning room at 20 ± 2 °C and 65 ± 2% relative humidity.
3. Test sample preparation before the test sample
Condition the sample in a relaxed state for at least 24 hours. Prepare five samples in the warp direction and five in the width (WFT) or filling direction of the fabrics.
4. Sample preparation for strip test
Sample preparation for strip test
Do not cut test specimens closer than 150 millimeters to either edge of the fabric. First, cut the sample to 60 mm in width and 300 mm in length. You should use scissors to cut the fabric into strips of the desired dimensions.
Fray the specimen’s long edges down with the help of the dissecting needle until the fabric is 50 mm wide. Fray both sides to the same degree. This method will create five specimens in warp and weft for both directions.
5. Sample preparation for the Grab test
Sample preparation for the Grab test
In the grab method, each test piece should be 100 mm wide and long enough to secure a 100 mm gauge length. Cut the sample at a diagonal angle from the fabric, ensuring a 150 mm edge remains.
Prepare two sets of test specimens. One set should be in the warp direction, and the other set should be in the weft direction.
Comparison of Grab and Strip Tests
The main difference between the grab test and the strip test lies in how the tester holds the specimen. In the strip test, the jaws clamp the entire width of the specimen. In a grab test, testers clamp the center part of the fabric to determine its strength.
For this reason, the suitable jaw face for the strip test is 25 mm in width and 50 mm in length with a 200 mm jaw separation. For the grab test, insert the jaw faces into the clamps. This creates a clamping area of 25 mm by 25 mm. The separation between the jaws will be 100 mm.
Once you set up the machine and its parameters, clamp the specimen between the two jaws. For the strip method, the test speed is 100 mm per minute, and for the Grab method, the test speed is 50 mm per minute.
Strip Test Vs Grab Test
Tensile Strength Testing Procedure and ChiuVention Tester Features
Start the crosshead and run until the specimen breaks. Most European buyers find that testing to a greatest force of 50 kilonewtons is enough. Repeat the test for all other warp and weft waist specimens.
Calculate the average and express the results for warp and weft ways as two distinct values. Tensile testing gives important information about how strong and durable textiles are. Helping engineers and designers create products that stand the test of time.
ChiuVention tester delivers outstanding accuracy, achieving results within 1%. This guarantees reliable and repeatable testing. It comes with safety features, such as an alarm system and an emergency stop device.
To ensure a secure testing process, the software supports many languages. It offers detailed test data such as displacement, greatest force, and elongation stress. This data meets various standards, including ISO, BE, EN, and GB/T.
Smart pull meets various testing needs. It has strong features and follows industry standards. It provides a thorough solution for evaluating textiles without bias.
ChiuVention testers can measure how strong a material’s grip is. This gives a good idea of its tensile properties.
Equipment Breakdown: Types of Tensile Strength Test Equipment for Fabric Testing
There are different types of tensile strength test equipment according to the required conditions. The man types of tensile strength testers are below.
- Universal Testing Machine (UTM)
- CRE Type Tensile Tester (Constant Rate of Extension)
- CRL Type Tester (Constant Rate of Loading)
- CRT Type Tester (Constant Rate of Traverse)
- Grab Test Equipment (ASTM D5034)
- Strip Test Equipment (ISO 13934)
Tensile Strength Tester Types (Single Column vs. Dual Column)
There are two types of tensile strength testers. We use them based on the needed pull force.
1. Single Column
Single column tester consists of a single frame, which makes it cost-effective. This tester allows users to apply less force, up to 5K. You can easily place it in labs with limited space. The single column tester is mostly used in textile research and development laboratories.
2. Dual Column
The dual-column tester has a double frame. This design makes it a bit more expensive than a single-column tester. It has a strong body and a balanced structure. This increases stability and reduces vibrations when you apply pulling force.
The design of the dual column accommodates higher load applications of up to 100 kN or more. Researchers use this tensile tester to test technical textiles, industrial fabrics, and composites.
Usage of Pull Tester Machine in Textile Applications
Pull testers are a type of universal testing machine (UTM). They measure the tensile strength of yarn, thread, fiber, and textiles. They also test seams, stitches, and fasteners like buttons, zippers, and snaps. Pull testers follow ASTM D5034 and ISO 13934-1.
How Tensile Strength Testing Equipment Differs for Technical Fabrics?
Tensile strength testing equipment differs for technical fabrics due to the required parameters. Technical fabrics need a pulling force of up to 100 kN. This tests their exact tensile strength.
Normal fabrics use uniaxial tensile testing. Technical fabrics need the strip or grab method.
Testers for technical textiles come with rubber grips. These grips hold the specimen securely and protect it from damage. You can use the tensile tester for technical fabrics. It works with the Kawabata Evaluation System (KES) for accurate testing.
Price Insights: How Much Does a Tensile Strength Testing Machine Cost?
Price Insights: How Much Does a Tensile Strength Testing Machine Cost?
Standard tensile strength testing machine costs vary from $3,000 to $150,000. It depends on the requirements and features. Engineers use it for lower tensile stress applications that vary from 50 kN to 1,000 kN.
The universal testing machine (UTM) prices vary from $13,000 to $50,000. The load cell determines how much tensile stress the tester can apply to the material. UTM tester load application varies from 10 kN to 50 kN.
Factors Influencing the Cost of a Tensile Strength Testing Machine
- Load cell, which varies from 50 kN to 1,000 kN.
- Precision and Sensitivity Level
- Advanced software with ERP/LIMS systems.
- It is not possible to remove the adverb.
- Grips and fixture material: rubber, metal, hydraulic, or pneumatic.
- Frame Structure (single column or double column)
- Brand reputation
Comparison between Manual and Computerized Systems
Manual tensile testers can introduce human error during tests. In contrast, a computerized system offers real-time data and presents results in graphs. This makes it simpler to see how materials respond to tension.
Factors Affecting Tensile Strength of Fabric
Factors Affecting Tensile Strength of Fabric
Tensile strength of a fabric depends on the following factors.
1. Fiber Type and Yarn Construction
Natural fibers like cotton and viscose are weaker than synthetic ones. Polyester and nylon have higher tensile strength. Twisted yarn has better tensile strength compared to single yarn.
2. Weave Structure and Finishing Treatments
Tight weave structure enhances the tensile strength. Chemical treatments, like mercerizing and leaching, decrease tensile strength. You can boost it a bit by adding a resin finish.
3. Environmental Conditions During Testing
When it’s humid, fiber absorbs moisture, which weakens its tensile strength. Cold conditioning makes it brittle. The fabric specimen requires conditioning at a room temperature of 20 plus – 2° C and 655 plus – 2% relative humidity.
Choosing the Right UTM: Tensile Strength Test Machine Manufacturers and Price Guide
To choose the right UTM, you need to know the specifications. Understand the client’s requirements and have the technical skills for testing. Also, be ready to integrate advanced software.
Key Global Tensile Strength Tester Manufacturers in Textiles
1. ChiuVention (China)
3. Zwick/Roell (Germany)
4. TestResources (USA)
Review of UTM Testing Machine Price Variations by Region
The price of a universal tensile strength testing machine can vary greatly. It depends on its specifications, quality, and precision. Innovation, shipping costs, and brand reputation also play a role.
- In the USA/EU, universal tensile testing machines vary from $15,000 to $60,000.
- In India/China, UTM costs vary from $2,000 to $10,000 for basic to medium-range instruments.
- In Pakistan/Bangladesh, the cost of a universal testing machine varies from $1,500 to $8,000.
Checklist: How to Select the Best Tensile Strength Test Equipment for Your Lab
To choose the best tensile strength test equipment for your lab, follow this checklist.
- Testing the material load range.
- Target standard ASTM or ISO.
- Type of grip and fixture to avoid specimen damage.
- The capability of advanced software integration.
- Brand reputation and its after-sales service.
- Ease of calibration, maintenance, and availability of parts and accessories
Future Trends in Fabric Tensile Strength Test
Fabric tensile strength test is shifting to automation. It employs artificial intelligence and machine learning systems. It helps take bulk test results and compare their tensile strength.
Portable and Modular Tensile Strength Test Equipment
Tensile testers are now smaller, making them easy to carry and use at production sites. Modular tensile strength test equipment is highly versatile. It can test how strong materials are. This includes textiles, plastics, rubber, and composites.
Demand Trends in High-Performance Textiles
Manufacturers use high-performance textiles in sportswear, military, aerospace, and medical textiles. High precision is crucial in tensile testing. It helps determine the performance and durability of high-performance textiles.
Scientists and engineers are focused on making tensile testers better. They use new tech like AI, machine learning, and ERP systems. This helps boost accuracy and precision.
Conclusion
Researchers test tensile strength to determine the strength of fabrics and fibers. It tests how stretchy a sample is and when it breaks by using a controlled force.
Tensile strength testing is key for high-performance textiles. These textiles are vital for sportswear, military gear, aerospace, and medical uses. The ChiuVention tensile strength testing machine features modern technology for great precision. It also has an ERP system.
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