Fabric Selection
Playing an integral role in the finish of any project, upholstery fabrics are chosen for many varied reasons.
Other than visual appeal, durability and resistance to wear are especially relevant to the selection process.
As a result there is a globally recognized test called the Martindale Rub Test.
This especially relevant industry test is specific to wear-ability.
The fabric being tested is rubbed against a flat piece of worsted wool in an erratic motion designed to simulate the wear of normal use.
The test method for assessing appearance change of pile fabrics such as velvet, velveteen, corduroy, knitted velour, knitted pile and flock fabrics is the Stoll test.
The Stoll Test involves the erratic movement of a small pad over the fabric surface mounted on a frame, this is also done under pressure to simulate the wear of normal use.
General Commercial Use
FLAT WOVEN/ KNITTED UPHOLSTERY
– Test method: Martindale AS 2001.2.25 (12 KPa pressure)
– Rating: 20 000 cycles (min).
PILE UPHOLSTERY FABRICS:
– Test method: Stoll AS 2687 -1997, Appendix ‘A’
– Rating: 1500 cycles (min).
Heavy Duty Commercial Use
FLAT WOVEN/ KNITTED UPHOLSTERY
– Test method: Martindale AS 2001.2.25 (12 KPa pressure)
– Rating: 40 000 cycles (min).
PILE UPHOLSTERY FABRICS:
– Test method: Stoll AS 2687 -1997, Appendix ‘A’
– Rating: 2500 cycles (min).
Fire Ratings
Nationally certified fire rating index.
– The ease of combustion index
– Spread of Flame Index
– Heat Evolved Index
– Smoke Developed Index
IMO or International Maritime Organization have some of the highest standards for use in extreme environments.