Scope Coverage
International testing standard for determining the surface area of leather through physical measurement. Adherence to iso 20137 allows buyers and tanneries to agree on the usable area of a hide for garment or footwear production. The method applies to all types of leather regardless of the tanning process or the animal species.
Test Method
Measurement uses a pin machine or an electronic scanning system that calculates the total surface of the skin. If iso 20137 is used, the equipment must be calibrated against a reference material of known area to ensure consistency. These machines account for the irregular shapes of natural hides to provide a more accurate figure than manual estimation.
Material Requirement
High humidity can cause leather to swell and distort the final area calculation. By following iso 20137, technicians ensure that the hide is measured at a standard moisture level.
Conformity Check
Flatness is the primary condition for an accurate scan during the verification process. Any wrinkles or folds in the hide will lead to an underestimation of the area. Professional tanneries use iso 20137 to guarantee that the surface area stated on the invoice matches the actual material delivered to the factory.
The certification prevents disputes during the cutting phase of manufacturing.