Overview
EN ISO 3175-2:2018 (ISO 3175-2:2017, corrected 2019‑12) defines standardized laboratory procedures for assessing the performance of professional drycleaning and finishing using tetrachloroethene (perchloroethylene). Published by CEN and aligned with the ISO 3175 series, this part covers test methods using commercial drycleaning machines for both normal and sensitive materials. Localized staining and stain‑removal methods are explicitly outside its scope.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and purpose: Provides a reproducible procedure to evaluate how fabrics and garments respond to tetrachloroethene drycleaning followed by restorative finishing (steam/pressing).
- Material categories: Distinguishes normal materials (able to withstand standard drycleaning) and sensitive materials (may need restricted mechanical action, lower drying temperatures or controlled water additions).
- Reagents: Specifies use of tetrachloroethene as the solvent and a model detergent/emulsifier such as sorbitan mono‑oleate.
- Apparatus and controls: Uses commercial drycleaning machines; recent updates introduce automatic solvent dryness control and added technical specifications for test ballasts (mass per unit area).
- Specimen preparation & conditioning: Details conditioned test specimen sizes and standard atmosphere requirements prior to testing (references ISO 139).
- Procedure: Defines distinct procedures for normal vs sensitive materials, finishing steps, and reporting. Notes that progressive changes often appear after 3–5 repeat cycles, so repeat testing is addressed.
- Safety & compliance: Emphasizes observation of official safety regulations when handling tetrachloroethene and operating drycleaning equipment.
Applications and users
This standard is practical for:
- Textile and apparel manufacturers evaluating product durability and finish retention after professional care.
- Testing laboratories conducting reproducible drycleanability assessments for quality control and R&D.
- Drycleaning equipment and detergent suppliers validating machine settings and solvent/detergent performance.
- Standards bodies and conformity assessors referencing harmonized test procedures for labeling and care instructions.
- Quality managers and product developers deciding care symbols and end‑user instructions (see ISO 3758 for care labeling).
Use cases include product development, comparative testing of fabrics/finishes, validating machine cycles for sensitive items, and supporting care labeling decisions.
Related standards
- ISO 3175-1 - Assessment methods for performance after cleaning and finishing (complements Part 2).
- ISO 139 - Standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing.
- ISO 3758 - Care labeling symbols (referenced for labeling outcomes).
Keywords: EN ISO 3175-2:2018, ISO 3175-2, tetrachloroethene, perchloroethylene, drycleaning procedures, professional care, fabrics, garments, commercial drycleaning machines.
