ASTM's Proficiency Test Program for Textiles provides participating laboratories with a statistical quality assurance (SQA) tool, enabling them to compare their performance in the use of ASTM methods against other laboratories worldwide.

Conducted biannually, this program provides (for each test cycle) three test samples, a hyperlink to record and submit test data, and instructions for conducting the tests.

Test samples include light, medium, and heavy-duty woven fabrics. Laboratories are instructed to conduct the tests in their facilities using the ASTM methods cited in the program (or other methods used by the lab) and to record their test results on the interactive form.

Each laboratory electronically submits their test data to ASTM for use in generating statistical summary reports. ASTM handles all data on a strictly confidential basis with no disclosure of lab identity except for one's own laboratory. Final reports contain all laboratory test data (coded), statistical analysis of test data, charts plotting test results versus lab code, and other information.

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METHODS INCLUDED IN THE PROGRAM

• D737 Air Permeability of Textiles Fabrics
• D1424 Tearing Strength of Fabrics by Falling-Pendulum Type (Elmendorf) Apparatus
• D2261 Tearing Strength of Fabrics by the Tongue (Single Rip) Procedure
• D3775 Fabric Count of Woven Fabric
• D3776 Mass Per Unit Area (Weight) of Fabric
• D5034 Breaking Strength and Elongation of Textile Fabrics (Grab Test)
• D5035 Breaking Strength and Elongation of Textile Fabrics (Strip Method)
• D5587 Tearing Strength of Textiles Fabrics (Trapezoid Procedure)

Participation does not require performance of all tests.

WHY SHOULD YOUR LABORATORY PARTICIPATE?

This program provides you with:

• The resources you need to satisfy proficiency testing elements of laboratory accreditation
• A useful quality control tool to monitor the strengths and weaknesses of laboratory performance
• Periodic comparison of test results and calculated statistical parameters with others in the textiles testing community worldwide
• A useful quality reference sample upon completion of testing

Each laboratory returns their completed test data to ASTM for use in generating statistical summary reports. Final reports, provided to participants only, contain:

• Each participating laboratory's test results (coded)
• Statistical analysis of test data
• Charts plotting test results versus laboratory code
• Other pertinent information

ABOUT ASTM COMMITTEE D13

Committee D13 on Textiles, consisting of over 500 members, and developer of over 300 standards, provides the technical direction for the program. Test information generated in the program is utilized by Committee D13 to determine if modifications to ASTM documents or new standards are warranted.