Overview
EN ISO 20932-3:2020 - Textiles - Determination of the elasticity of fabrics - Part 3: Narrow fabrics (ISO 20932-3:2018) defines standardized test methods to measure the elasticity and related mechanical behaviour of narrow fabrics (trims, webbings, bindings, strapping). The document lists two complementary test methods: Method A (for product quality assurance) and Method B (for assessing product performance in use). It also covers sampling, specimen preparation, conditioning, test apparatus and result reporting.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope and terms: Definitions for narrow fabric, elasticity, strip test specimen, gauge length, pretension, elongation, cycle and force decay are provided to ensure consistent interpretation.
- Two test methods:
- Method A - intended for routine quality control, cyclic testing and repeatability checks.
- Method B - oriented to simulate in‑use performance, including hold times and decay measurements.
- Apparatus and verification:
- Use of a constant‑rate‑of‑extension (CRE) testing machine (tensile tester with one fixed and one moving clamp) is specified.
- Reference to verification/calibration standards such as ISO 7500‑1 and measurement management ISO 10012.
- Atmosphere and conditioning: Conditioning and testing atmospheres follow ISO 139 to minimise variability from humidity and temperature.
- Specimen preparation and mounting: Guidance on slack mounting, gauge length, pretension and clamping (strip specimens and line clamps) is included; annexes describe clamping devices.
- Procedure, recording and calculations: Instructions cover operation sequences for load/extension cycling, recording of load/elongation curves, expressions for elongation, force at specified elongation and force decay over time.
- Annexes and reporting: Informative annexes include a typical cycling graph (Annex A), sampling procedure (Annex B) and clamping/holding devices (Annex C). The standard defines required items for the test report.
Applications and users
This standard is useful for:
- Textile manufacturers and converters producing narrow fabrics (webbing, ribbons, elastic trims) for consistent product quality.
- Test laboratories performing mechanical testing, QA/QC and product certification.
- Product designers and R&D teams evaluating materials for apparel, medical straps, safety harnesses, automotive trims and technical textiles.
- Procurement and compliance teams specifying performance criteria (elastic recovery, force decay, elongation) in contracts and technical datasheets.
Keywords: EN ISO 20932-3:2020, textile elasticity testing, narrow fabrics, CRE testing machine, method A method B, force decay, fabric performance, quality assurance.
Related standards
- ISO 20932 series (other parts cover general terms and wider fabric types)
- ISO 139 - Standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing
- ISO 7500-1 - Verification of tensile testing machines
- ISO 10012 - Measurement management systems
- ISO 22198 - Determination of fabric width and length
For implementation, consult the full EN ISO 20932-3:2020 text for procedural details, annexes and mandatory reporting requirements.
