Purpose of Test
This test evaluates fabric resistance against water penetration by impact. It is applicable to any textile fabric that may or may not have been treated with water-resistant or water-repellant finishes.
The test is used to assess the probable resistance of rain against fabrics.
The test results for this method depend on the water repellency of the following materials used:
- Fabric construction
- Fabric finish
- Fibers
- Yarns
Terminology Defined
Impact Penetration – The penetration of water to fabric with the use of impact.
Water Repellency – The fabric’s resistance to water wetting.
Water Resistance – The fabric’s resistance to water wetting and penetration.
Blotter – A sheet of blotting paper where the textile is laid during testing and reweighing.
Test Method
Materials Used for Test
- Test specimen
- Water
- Blotter
Testing Procedure
The test includes spraying of water on the test specimen in a blotter for five minutes. The blotter is reweighed for assessment of how much water has leaked through the test specimen.
Test Procedure (Summary)
- Part 1: Spraying of specimen: The test specimen is laid on a taut surface and backed by a weight blotter, then is sprayed with a given volume of water for five minutes.
- Part 2: Reweighing of blotter: To assess the water penetration levels, the blotter is reweighed. The amount of water that has leaked through is evaluated.