What are the industry standards for hydrostatic head testing?

Watertightness is a very important factor in the modern textile and clothing industry. The waterproof performance of fabrics, clothing and other articles can be evaluated by using a Hydrostatic Head Tester device. This test is done by placing the article in a controlled environment and applying a certain amount of water pressure. This article will describe the industry standards in hydrostatic testing and how to ensure the tests are performed correctly.

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What is hydrostatic testing?


Hydrostatic testing (or "fluid resistance testing") is a method used to evaluate the water resistance of textiles, materials and products. This test is usually done with a device called a "fluid resistance meter." The liquid resistance gauge consists of a fixed clamp and an adjustable circular platform. The sample to be tested is sandwiched between two clamps and placed above a circular platform. Then, a predetermined amount of water is injected into the circular platform through a pipe until it reaches a preset height.


During this process, a certain amount of static pressure, called "head", is applied above the surface of the sample to simulate the pressure that may be experienced in rainy weather or other similar conditions. Once the preset altitude is reached and maintained for a certain period of time, the test evaluator records the water head. By measuring the water head, the waterproof performance of the sample can be determined.


Industry Standard


In the textile and apparel industry, there are several different international standards used to assess the water resistance of materials. The most common of these are ISO 811, AATCC 127 and JIS L1092. These standards all involve testing a sample by placing it in a controlled environment and applying a certain amount of water pressure.


ISO 811 is a standard developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to evaluate the water resistance of textiles and coated materials. The standard specifies the equipment, sample size and test procedures required for testing and provides guidance for classification based on test results.


AATCC 127 is a standard developed by the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) to evaluate the water resistance of products such as fabrics, nonwovens and clothing. This standard is similar to ISO 811, but provides more detailed testing procedures and includes considerations when testing different types of materials such as stretch fabrics.


JIS L1092 is a standard developed by the Japanese Industrial Standardization Organization (JIS) to evaluate the water resistance of various types of textiles, nonwovens and coated materials. This standard is similar to ISO 811 and AATCC 127, but provides more stringent testing procedures to ensure the accuracy of test results.


How to make sure the tests are executed correctly?


To ensure hydrostatic testing is performed correctly, the following steps need to be followed:


1. Select the appropriate test equipment: Different types of products may require different types of liquid resistance meters. Select the appropriate equipment according to the characteristics of the sample to be tested.

2. Prepare samples: According to the selected standard, cut and prepare samples of the required size and quantity.

3. Set up test conditions: Test in a controlled environment, such as a laboratory or factory. Factors such as temperature, humidity and wind speed are controlled to ensure consistent test results.

4. Perform the test: place the sample between the clamps of the hydrometer and apply a predetermined amount of water pressure. Record the head of water and determine if the sample meets the selected standard.

5. Analyze the results: Classify the test results according to the selected standard and determine whether the requirements are met.


Hydrostatic testing is one of the important methods for evaluating the waterproof performance of textiles, materials and products. In the textile and apparel industry, there are several different international standards used to assess the water resistance of materials. By following proper testing procedures, you can ensure accurate and reliable test results and help manufacturers and consumers make better decisions.