Overview
ISO 23910:2019 specifies a standardized method for measuring the stitch tear resistance of leather materials. This standard is applicable to all leather types, with a particular focus on leathers thicker than 1.2 mm. Stitch tear resistance testing is crucial for assessing leather durability, especially in applications where sewn leather components are subjected to stress.
Developed by ISO in collaboration with the International Union of Leather Technologists and Chemists Societies (IULTCS), ISO 23910:2019 provides a reliable, reproducible test method widely recognized in the leather industry to ensure quality and performance consistency.
Key Topics
- Scope and Applicability: The method is designed for physical and mechanical testing of leather stitch tear resistance, suitable for varied leather thicknesses but optimized for thickness over 1.2 mm.
- Test Principle: The test involves pulling a leather specimen against a specially shaped mandrel inserted through a slit in the leather, measuring the force required to cause a stitch tear.
- Apparatus Requirements: Includes a tensile testing machine with controlled jaw speed, a metal test piece holder, a specific mandrel, thickness gauges, and a press knife to prepare slits in the leather.
- Sample Preparation: Leather samples are conditioned and cut using a press knife into standardized test pieces, with orientation both parallel and perpendicular to the backbone to ensure consistent results.
- Testing Procedure: The force applied to tear the stitched leather is recorded in newtons, with tests repeated on multiple samples to determine mean tear resistance.
- Reporting Requirements: Results must include leather thickness, mean tear load values for each orientation, conditioning atmosphere, any deviations, and comprehensive sample identification details.
Applications
ISO 23910:2019 is essential for leather manufacturers, quality control laboratories, and product designers focused on:
- Durability Assessment: Verifying the resistance of leather to stitching-related tearing stresses helps predict product lifespan and performance.
- Quality Control: Ensuring consistency across leather batches and suppliers by testing physical properties relevant to sewing and stitching processes.
- Product Development: Informing material selection and design improvements for sewn leather components in footwear, upholstery, automotive interiors, leather apparel, and accessories.
- Compliance and Certification: Meeting industry and regulatory requirements by using an internationally recognized testing procedure to validate leather product standards.
- Research and Innovation: Providing a benchmark method to evaluate new leather treatments, finishes, or alternative materials for enhanced stitch tear resistance.
Related Standards
ISO 23910:2019 references and complements several other important ISO standards for comprehensive leather testing:
- ISO 2418: Sampling locations for leather testing to ensure representative specimens.
- ISO 2419:2012: Guidelines for sample preparation and conditioning.
- ISO 2589: Procedures for determining leather thickness, critical for interpreting tear resistance.
- ISO 7500-1:2018: Calibration requirements for tensile testing machines used during testing.
- EN 15987: Key terminology definitions related to leather trade and testing.
By adhering to ISO 23910:2019 alongside these related standards, leather industry professionals can maintain precision, reliability, and international compliance in testing and reporting stitch tear resistance.
ISO 23910:2019 stands as a definitive resource for measuring stitch tear resistance in leather, promoting product quality, durability, and innovation in the global leather sector.
