VIT 117C – CrumpleFlex Tester for Measuring Flexing Resistance of Coated Fabrics

Testing Method

What is Flexing Resistance?
Flexing resistance is an important index that measures the bending resistance of materials like rubber, leather, and coated fabrics. Specifically for coated fabrics, this property ensures that the fabric does not wrinkle or get damaged after repeated bending or flexing during use and washing. This index helps in assessing the durability of the fabric under repeated stresses, making it crucial for ensuring the longevity of textiles in practical applications.

CrumpleFlex Test Method
The CrumpleFlex Test simulates the back-and-forth distortion that coated fabrics experience during usage. The test involves the following procedure:

• Principle: A rectangular coated fabric sample is stitched into a cylindrical shape and fixed between two discs. One of the discs oscillates 90° around its axis while the other moves back and forth along its axis. This motion compresses and distorts the sample until a specified number of cycles is completed or until the sample shows obvious signs of damage.
• Sample Preparation: Cut a fabric sample along both horizontal and longitudinal directions. The sample should measure 220mm in length and 190mm in width. Stitch the sample into a cylinder with a 64mm internal diameter, ensuring the coating is on the outside.
• Test Procedure: Install the cylindrical sample between the two discs, ensuring the sample is tightly clamped at both ends and aligned with the midpoint of the oscillating disc. Start the equipment and run the test for the required number of cycles.

Sample Inspection: After completing the test, observe the sample’s appearance. Record the number of flexing cycles, and assess any damage such as wrinkling or fading. Compare the results of the flexed sample with a non-flexed sample to evaluate any changes in the fabric’s condition.