Overview
ISO 18895:2006 is an international standard developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that defines the test methods for fatigue resistance of steel shanks used in footwear. Specifically, it addresses steel shanks measuring at least 100 mm in length that reinforce the waist region of women's shoes, and certain men's and children's shoes. This standard ensures the durability and reliability of footwear components subjected to repeated bending stresses during use.
The fatigue resistance test specified in ISO 18895:2006 plays a vital role in quality control and performance assessment in the footwear industry, helping manufacturers produce longer-lasting, comfortable, and supportive shoes.
Key Topics
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Scope of Testing
Focus on steel shanks reinforcing the waist area of footwear for women, some men’s, and children’s shoes.
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Fatigue Resistance Definition
The ability of the steel shank to withstand repeated loading cycles without failure.
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Testing Apparatus
- Fixed lower jaw and adjustable upper jaw with hardened steel face plates
- Load application device inducing a force of 49 N ± 2 N at 4 cycles per second
- Cycle counting mechanism up to the point of shank fracture
- Torque control equipment for jaw clamping force, set to 4,900 N·mm ± 50 N·mm
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Sampling and Conditioning
- Complete shank samples used for testing
- Minimum of four samples per shank type
- Conditioning at controlled atmosphere according to EN 12222 prior to testing to ensure consistent results
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Testing Method
The shank is clamped at the heel end and cyclically bent like a cantilever beam under an alternating load until it breaks, simulating fatigue experienced in real-life footwear use.
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Result Expression
Record the number of load cycles until breakage for each specimen and calculate the average fatigue life of the samples tested.
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Test Report Requirements
Includes test results, sample descriptions, method references, sample quantity, deviations from the method, and dates of testing.
Applications
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Footwear Quality Control
Ensuring steel shanks meet fatigue resistance standards to prevent premature failure in shoes.
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Product Development
Assisting designers and engineers in selecting or optimizing shank materials and designs for enhanced performance and customer satisfaction.
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Safety and Comfort Enhancement
Reliable shanks contribute to proper foot support, reducing injury risk and improving wearer comfort.
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Compliance and Market Access
Meeting ISO 18895:2006 requirements facilitates adherence to international quality benchmarks necessary for global footwear market acceptance.
Related Standards
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EN 12222 / ISO 18454: Standards specifying atmospheres for conditioning and testing footwear, applied within ISO 18895 for sample preparation and environmental control during tests.
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ISO/TC 216 – Footwear Committee: The technical committee responsible for developing footwear-related standards, including those governing other components and performance tests.
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EN 12958: The equivalent European standard harmonized with ISO 18895, ensuring consistency across European markets.
By following ISO 18895:2006, footwear manufacturers and testing laboratories can reliably assess fatigue resistance of steel shanks, crucial for producing durable, supportive, and high-quality shoes. This standard enhances product safety, supports innovation in footwear technology, and promotes international trade by standardizing testing methods.
