Tear Propagation
The resistance of a fabric to a continuous rip is a critical factor in determining its overall durability and lifespan. The international standard known as iso 13937 provides multiple methods for measuring the tear force of textile fabrics, including the trouser, wing and tongue methods. It focuses on the force required to propagate a tear that has already been started in a specimen.
This property is especially important for garments and industrial textiles where a small snag could lead to a catastrophic failure of the material. A high tear strength indicates that the fabric can withstand the stresses of being caught on sharp objects or undergoing heavy physical activity. It ensures that the textile remains functional even after minor surface damage occurs.
Trouser Rip
One of the most common procedures under this standard involves the use of a trouser shaped specimen where two legs are pulled in opposite directions. The machine records the force needed to continue the tear along the length of the fabric as the yarns are snapped one by one. This iso 13937 test mimics the action of a garment being ripped apart at a seam or a snag point.
A technician must ensure that the tear follows a straight line between the yarns to get a valid reading of the material’s resistance. The average of the peak forces recorded during the rip provides the final tear strength value. This data helps designers select fabrics that are appropriate for the intended level of mechanical stress in the final product.
Every yarn in the path of the tear contributes to the resistance measured by the equipment.
Mill Checkpoint
Quality control teams in textile factories use these metrics to confirm that their production batches meet the requirements for heavy duty applications. Testing according to iso 13937 allows a mill to identify issues with yarn count or finishing chemicals that might have made the fabric brittle. If the tear force is too low, the material may be rejected or downgraded for use in less demanding products.
This verification step is essential for fabrics destined for workwear, tents and other technical applications where failure is not an option. It provides a clear, numerical basis for accepting or rejecting a lot before it is shipped to the customer. The results are documented in a formal test report to ensure accountability and traceability throughout the supply chain.
Buyers look for these certificates to guarantee the quality of their purchases.
Structural Boundary
The physical properties of the yarn and the tightness of the weave significantly influence the tear resistance of a textile. If the yarns are too tightly packed, they cannot move to share the load, which results in a lower tear strength as measured by iso 13937. The test stops being a reliable indicator of performance if the fabric is highly elastic or if it has a coating that prevents the yarns from sliding.
This method does not account for the force needed to start a tear, only the force needed to continue it. It provides a measure of propagation resistance rather than initial puncture strength. Manufacturers must balance the need for high tear strength with other properties like breathability and weight.
Chemical softeners can sometimes increase tear resistance by allowing yarns to bunch together during the test.
