Dimensional Stability and Shrinkage Testing
topic
Fibre shrinkage tests: boiling water shrinkage (BWS, ISO 6990): 100°C, 30 min, load 0.05 cN/dtex, measurement under 0.25 cN/dtex; dry heat shrinkage (ISO 10558): 160°C, 30 min, same loads. Fabric dimensional change: ISO 5077/6330 (domestic washing at 40, 60°C), ISO 3005 (tumble drying). Shrinkage force: constant-length thermomechanical analysis (TMA), force vs. temperature. HT yarn: dimensional stability measured by heat shrinkage at 180°C/10 min under 0.05 cN/dtex — must be <1% for tyre cord.
Role
Dimensional stability testing is one of the most commercially important property determinations for polyester, governing fabric specifications and care labelling. Understanding the physical basis of polyester shrinkage and its measurement methodology is essential for quality control and product development.