Overview
ASTM D1517-23: Standard Terminology Relating to Leather is a comprehensive reference document published by ASTM International. It provides standardized terminology for the leather industry, offering clear definitions of terms widely used in the manufacture, processing, specification, sampling, and testing of leather products. This standard aids manufacturers, suppliers, and users of leather and leather goods in ensuring consistent communication and understanding of industry-specific vocabulary.
ASTM D1517-23 is not a methods-based testing standard but a terminology reference designed to promote clarity and uniformity in the leather sector. Developed under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D31 on Leather, the terminology is useful for professionals across the leather supply chain, including those involved in procurement, quality control, sampling, and governmental specification processes.
Key Topics
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General Leather Terms
The standard outlines definitions for widely encountered leather terms, such as "full grain leather," "chrome tannage," "aniline finish," and "buffalo leather." These definitions clarify differences in leather types, finishes, and treatments.
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Leather Processing and Tanning Methods
ASTM D1517-23 details terminology related to various tanning methods (vegetable, chrome, oil, mineral), finishing processes (buffing, embossing, dyeing), and specialty leathers (chamois, nubuck, cordovan).
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Sampling and Physical Testing
Terms relevant for sampling and testing (e.g., "boil test," "float," "beam," "fatliquor") are included to support the evaluation of both physical and chemical properties. This ensures accuracy in communication regarding test specimens and procedures.
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Types, Grades, and Uses
The standard distinguishes between leather types by source animal (e.g., cowhide, pigskin, goatskin), by end-use (shoe leather, bag leather, garment leather), and by physical characteristics (boarded, embossed, bonded).
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Common Leather Defects and Features
Definitions for observable characteristics, defects, or surface conditions, such as "blocking," "blushing," "flanky," and "salt stain," help facilitate uniform assessment and quality grading.
Applications
ASTM D1517-23 is an essential tool in several practical contexts:
- Manufacturing and Quality Control: Manufacturers use standardized terminology to ensure product specifications, labeling, and quality assurance are consistent and meet industry expectations.
- Procurement and Specifications: Buyers and suppliers refer to these definitions for accurate product descriptions during transactions, contracts, and compliance with federal or organizational procurement standards.
- Laboratory Testing: Testing laboratories and quality professionals rely on precise terminology when preparing samples, performing physical and chemical tests, and reporting findings.
- Education and Training: The standard serves as an authoritative guide for training new personnel, ensuring understanding of the differences between processes, leather types, and terminologies.
- Regulatory and Compliance: Government agencies and organizations refer to the standard when issuing regulations or conducting inspections relating to leather and leather products.
Related Standards
- ASTM D2813: Standard Practice for Sampling Leather for Physical and Chemical Tests
- ASTM D2821: Standard Practice for Sampling Leather for Chemical Analysis
- ASTM D5053: Standard Guide for Preparation of Leather Samples for Chemical Analysis
- ISO 4045: Leather - Chemical tests - Determination of pH and difference figure
These related standards complement ASTM D1517-23 by offering methodologies for sampling and testing leather, ensuring comprehensive quality evaluation when paired with standardized terminology.
Using ASTM D1517-23 in conjunction with related standards facilitates clear, consistent, and professional communication within the global leather industry.