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Testing - Repellency

Protective fabrics need to have good repellency to water, liquid chemicals e.g. petrol, acids etc., or oils dependant upon the end use of the garment. Our fabrics are given special finishes to improve their repellency and are regularly tested before and after washing (up to 30 wash/dry cycles) and assessed for appearance, shrinkage and durability of the special finish.

Water - Spray Test BS EN 24920:1992

This test gives an indication of the resistance of a fabric to surface wetting by applying a controlled spray of water to its surface. Generally, the higher the grade, the better the water resistance of the fabric.

Oil - Hydrocarbon Resistance Test AATCC Test Method 118-1997/ISO 14419

This test gives a rough index of oil stain resistance. Generally, the higher the grade, the better the resistance to staining by oily substances. It is a very useful test for comparing different finishes for a given fabric.

Liquid Chemicals - Gutter Test - Resistance to penetration by liquids BS EN ISO 6530:2005

A measured volume of test liquid is applied as a controlled jet to the surface of the fabric held in an inclined gutter. The percentage of liquid repelled by and penetrating through the fabric is recorded. The test can be carried out on a single layer or multilayer assembly. Test liquids are chosen as those against which protection is required for a specific end use.