Purpose of Test
This test checks for fabric resistance against water penetration by impact. It is applicable to any kind of textile fabric that may or may not have been treated with water-resistant or water-repellant finishes.
The test may also be 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:
- Fibers
- Yarns
- Fabric construction
- Fabric finish
Terminology Defined
Impact Penetration – The penetration of water to fabric with the use of impact.
Water Resistance – The fabric’s resistance to water wetting and penetration.
Water Repellency – The fabric’s resistance to water wetting.
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 testing parameters include the spraying of water on the test specimen in a blotter and reweighing the blotter for assessment.
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.
- Part 2: Reweighing of blotter: To assess the water penetration levels, the blotter is reweighed. The test specimen is then evaluated.