Overview
EN ISO 32100:2018 - Rubber- or plastics-coated fabrics: Determination of flex resistance by the flexometer method is a CEN-endorsed international standard that specifies a laboratory test to assess the flex resistance of rubber- or plastics-coated textiles in the folded condition. The method measures how repeated folding (flex cycles) affects the appearance of a coated fabric specimen; the visual condition after a defined flex number or after a specified number of cycles is used as the performance indicator.
This standard applies only to products that can be clamped in the test apparatus and where the fold can be made to run back and forth along the specimen during testing. EN ISO 32100:2018 updates the 2010 edition and is intended for use in quality control, product development and conformity assessment.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Test principle: One end of a folded test piece is clamped in a movable upper clamp and the other end in a fixed lower clamp; the upper clamp reciprocates so the fold travels along the specimen and produces flex cycles.
- Apparatus: Flexometer with upper (movable) and lower (fixed) clamps, counter, magnifier (×6), and mandrel (10 mm diameter). The upper clamp reciprocates about a horizontal axle with a nominal flex angle of 22.5° and typical frequency around 100 cycles/min (as specified).
- Specimens: Typical specimen size 70 mm × 45 mm; special shapes allowed in certain cases. At least three specimens cut longitudinal to manufacture direction and three perpendicular.
- Conditioning and atmosphere: Tests are carried out in standard atmosphere B (ISO 2231 - 23 °C, 50 % r.h.) with specified conditioning time.
- Procedure and assessment: Periodic visual examination (with magnifier) after the agreed flex number or after specified cycles. The appearance (cracking, delamination, etc.) is recorded as the measure of flex resistance.
- Reporting: Test parameters, specimen orientation, condition, flex number/cycles and observed damage are required in the test report.
Applications
- Routine quality control for rubber- or plastics-coated fabrics used in tarpaulins, protective clothing, inflatable products, automotive interiors, conveyor belts and technical membranes.
- Comparative testing during product development to evaluate coatings, formulations and construction.
- Supplier qualification and specification compliance checks for coated textiles where resistance to repetitive folding is critical.
Who uses this standard
- Textile and coating manufacturers
- Independent testing laboratories and certification bodies
- Product designers and R&D teams
- Purchasing/specification writers and quality assurance professionals
Related standards
Keywords: EN ISO 32100:2018, flex resistance, flexometer method, rubber-coated fabrics, plastics-coated fabrics, flex cycles, coated textiles testing, physical and mechanical tests.
