Fabric Stiffness Tester

Fabric Stiffness Tester

Fabric Stiffness Tester is a lab instrument used to measure the stiffness or flexural rigidity of fabric materials. It evaluates how resistant a fabric is to bending, which influences its drape, comfort, and handling characteristics.

Purpose of Fabric Stiffness Tester:

To determine the stiffness of textiles by measuring the bending length and calculating flexural rigidity, often using methods like the Cantilever Test (as per ASTM D1388 or ISO 9073-7).

Working Principle of Fabric Stiffness Tester:

A fabric strip is slid over a horizontal platform until its free end bends under its own weight to a specific angle (usually 41.5°). The length at which this occurs is used to calculate bending length and stiffness.

Main Components of Fabric Stiffness Tester:

– Test Platform: Flat surface for sample movement.

– Graduated Scale: Measures the overhanging length of fabric.

– Angle Indicator: Guides the measurement based on standard deflection angle.

– Fabric Clamp or Guide: Helps place and move the sample smoothly.

Applications of Fabric Stiffness Tester:

– Apparel fabrics (e.g., for comfort and drape analysis)

– Technical textiles (e.g., automotive, medical fabrics)

– Paper, nonwovens, and films

Benefits of Fabric Stiffness Tester:

1. Accurate Measurement of Flexibility – Provides reliable data on fabric stiffness, essential for quality control and product development.
2. Improves Product Comfort – Helps assess how soft or rigid a fabric will feel in clothing or furnishings.
3. Supports Material Selection – Aids designers and engineers in choosing the right fabric for specific applications based on stiffness.

4. Quality Assurance – Detects fabric inconsistencies or defects that affect handling or drape.
5. Standards Compliance – Enables testing as per international standards like ASTM D1388 and ISO 9073-7 for global product approval.
6. Quick and Simple Operation – Delivers fast results with minimal operator training or preparation.

7. Applicable to Multiple Materials – Suitable for woven, nonwoven, knitted fabrics, paper, and films.
8. Enhances R&D Accuracy – Supports consistent material testing during product innovation and textile finishing.

Features of Fabric Stiffness Tester:

1. Graduated Measurement Scale – Precise scale to measure overhang length for accurate stiffness calculation.
2. Flat Test Platform – Smooth, level surface ensures consistent and reliable fabric movement.
3. Standard Deflection Angle Guide – Built-in 41.5° angle reference for consistent stiffness testing (per ASTM/ISO).
4. Manual or Motorized Models – Available in both types for simple or automated operation depending on lab needs.
5. Compact Design – Space-saving unit ideal for textile labs and quality control rooms.

6. Sample Holder or Clamp – Ensures correct alignment and smooth feeding of fabric strips during testing.
7. Durable Construction – Made of corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or aluminum for long-term use.
8. Compliance with Standards – Supports methods like ASTM D1388, ISO 9073-7 for stiffness testing of fabrics.

9. Lightweight and Portable – Easy to move and use in various lab settings.
10. Low Maintenance – Simple mechanical parts require minimal servicing.

How to Use Fabric Stiffness Tester (Cantilever Method):

1. Prepare the Sample – Cut the fabric into a rectangular strip (e.g., 25 mm × 200 mm), as per standard.
2. Place the Sample – Lay the fabric strip flat on the test platform with one end aligned at the zero mark.
3. Slide the Fabric – Gently push the fabric forward so it slowly overhangs the platform.

4. Watch for Deflection – Stop sliding when the free end of the fabric bends down to the reference angle (typically 41.5°).
5. Read the Bending Length – Measure the overhang distance from the scale. This is the bending length (C).
6. Calculate Flexural Rigidity

– Use the formula:

G = W × C³

Where:

– G = Flexural rigidity (mg·cm)

– W = Fabric weight per unit area (mg/cm²)

– C = Bending length (cm)

7. Repeat for Accuracy – Test both warp and weft directions and average the results for better accuracy.

Tip: Always perform the test in a controlled environment (standard temperature and humidity) for reliable results.

Fabric Stiffness Tester

Scope of application
It is used to measure the stiffness of cotton,
wool, silk, linen, chemical fibers and other woven fabrics,
knitted fabrics, general nonwovens, coated fabrics, etc.
It is also suitable for measuring the stiffness of paper,
leather, film and other flexible materials.

Relevant Standards
GB/T 18318, ASTM D 1388, IS09073-7, BS EN22313 etc.
[Instrument Characteristics]
1. Infrared photoelectric invisible inclined plane
detection system replaces the traditional tangible inclined plane,
realizes non-contact detection, and overcomes the problem that
the measurement accuracy is affected by
the sample torsion lifted by the inclined plane.
2. The inclination adjustable mechanism of instrument
measurement to meet different test requirements.

3. Stepping motor drive, accurate measurement, smooth operation;
4. The color touch screen display can show the extended length,
bending length, bending stiffness of the sample, the warp average,
the weft average and the total average of the above values respectively.
5. Printing of Chinese report forms for thermal printers.

Technical parameters
1. Test methods: The two method (A method: Weft test, B method: Forward and backward test)
2. Measurement angle:41.5 degree, 43 degree and 45 degree adjustable
3. Extend the length range:5-220 mm (special requirements can be made at the time of ordering)
4. Length resolution:0.01mm
5. Measurement accuracy:±0.1mm
6. Specimen specifications:250×25mm
7. Work platform specifications:250×50mm
8. Specification of sample pressing plate:250×25mm

9. Pushing speed of press plate:3 mm/s; 4 mm/s; 5 mm/s
10. Display output: Touch screen display
11. Print Output: Chinese Report
12. Data Processing Volume: A total of 15 groups, each group less than 20 trials
13. Printer: Thermal printer
14, power supply:AC220V 50Hz
15. Host volume:570mm×360mm×490mm
16. Host weight:20kg