Overview
ISO 1420:2016 defines laboratory methods to determine the resistance to penetration by water (hydrostatic resistance) of rubber- or plastics-coated fabrics. The standard specifies two test methods (Method A and Method B) that subject a coated-fabric test piece to a controlled hydrostatic pressure for a fixed time, then inspect for water penetration. Tests are conducted at ambient temperature and the results are used to assess waterproofing performance under defined pressure conditions.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Two test methods
- Method A - for low and high hydrostatic pressures (system capable of up to 500 kPa). Typical application pressure examples are 200 kPa (apparel) and 300 kPa (industrial), with pressure maintained for a specified time.
- Method B - for low hydrostatic pressures (less than 100 kPa); includes manometer or pressure-gauge measurement and retaining mesh for the specimen.
- Apparatus and measurement
- Pressure gauge capable of at least 600 kPa for Method A; manometer or gauge up to 100 kPa for Method B.
- Test mouth/test area standardized (e.g., 100 mm diameter opening or 100 cm2 area).
- Sealing gaskets, retaining mesh and test-piece support plate to avoid damage under pressure.
- Specimen preparation
- Test-piece shapes and sizes specified: Method A square ~150 mm (or circular 130–200 mm), Method B square ~200 mm (or circular 130–200 mm).
- Number of specimens: Method A - three; Method B - five.
- Conditioning per ISO 2231 (Method 1): minimum 16 h for single-sided coated fabrics, 24 h for double-sided.
- Timing and reporting
- Minimum interval between manufacture and test: 16 h. For non-product tests a maximum of 4 weeks; for products typically not more than 3 months unless agreed otherwise.
- Test report and expression of results are specified (pressure, duration, observations of leakage or abnormalities).
Applications and users
ISO 1420:2016 is used to:
- Verify waterproof performance of coated fabrics used in garments, rainwear, tarpaulins, industrial covers, inflatable products, and protective equipment.
- Support quality control, product specification, acceptance testing and comparative evaluations between materials and coatings.
Primary users:
- Coated-fabric manufacturers and converters
- Textile testing laboratories and QA teams
- Product designers, specifiers and procurement specialists
- Regulatory bodies and standards committees
Related standards
- ISO 2231 - conditioning and testing atmospheres for coated fabrics (referenced for specimen conditioning)
- ISO 2286-1 - determination of roll characteristics (usable width, mass)
Keywords: ISO 1420:2016, hydrostatic resistance, water penetration test, rubber- or plastics-coated fabrics, Method A, Method B, coated-fabric testing, ISO 2231.