Overview
EN ISO 20932-2:2020 (ISO 20932-2:2018) specifies standardized multiaxial test methods for measuring the elasticity of fabrics when their surface is deformed in multiple directions. Adopted by CEN, this part of the ISO 20932 series defines two distinct test procedures - Method A (dynamic) and Method B (static) - for evaluating properties such as maximum deformation, residual deformation (bagging), maximum force and modulus. This standard does not apply to narrow fabrics, and results from the two methods are not directly comparable; the choice of method must be agreed between parties and reported.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope and limitations
- Multiaxial surface deformation tests for textile fabrics.
- Excludes narrow fabrics; results from Methods A and B cannot be compared.
- Two specified methods
- Method A - Dynamic test: cyclic loading and unloading to characterise elastic response over repeated deformation cycles. Includes apparatus, specimen clamping, recording and result calculations.
- Method B - Static test: a static hemispherical probe is used to produce a fixed distension, with measurement of residual deformation after an agreed recovery time. Includes preliminary parameter selection and actual test procedures.
- Terminology and measured properties
- Terms defined include elasticity, maximum deformation, residual deformation (bagging), maximum force, modulus and cycle.
- Test conditions and traceability
- Sampling, specimen preparation and environmental conditioning are specified (reference to ISO 139 for standard atmospheres).
- Equipment calibration and measurement management align with normative references (e.g., ISO 7500-1, ISO 10012).
- Reporting
- The test report must identify the method used and provide the agreed testing parameters; differences between method outcomes must be noted.
Applications and users
- Who uses it
- Textile and technical textile manufacturers, R&D labs, quality control departments, independent test houses and garment engineers.
- Practical uses
- Compare fabric constructions for stretch/recovery in upholstery, apparel, medical textiles and industrial textiles.
- Inform product design, performance specifications and supplier agreements where surface deformation and recovery are critical (e.g., seat covers, elastic garments, protective fabric laminates).
- Establish reproducible test records for quality assurance and material selection.
Related standards
Keywords: EN ISO 20932-2:2020, ISO 20932-2, fabric elasticity testing, multiaxial tests, dynamic method, static method, textile testing standard, residual deformation, bagging.