ACT Voluntary
Physical Properties Guideline for
Knit Fabrics

Key factors in assessing overall durability of a fabric vary depending on the fabric construction.

Upholstery – Knit Fabrics

Pilling
ASTM D3511 (Brush Pill), Class 3 minimum
Pilling is the formation of fuzzy balls of fiber on the surface of a fabric that remain attached to the fabric.

Aesthetic issues of pilling and fuzzing that sometimes occur on textile products do not impact the durability or functionality of the material. Laboratory testing provides some insight into the propensity for a textile to pill or fuzz; however, lab tests alone cannot predict field performance since they do not consider variables (e.g., care and maintenance, misuse, environment) encountered in the actual end-use application.

Breaking Strength
ASTM D5034 (Grab Test), 50 lbs. minimum in warp and weft
Breaking strength is the measurement of stress exerted to pull a fabric apart under tension.

Tear Strength
ASTM D2261, 6.0 lbs. minimum in both directions
Tear Strength is the meaurement of stress exerted to rip the fabric under tension.

Snag Testing
ASTM D3939 (Mace Snag), Class 3 minimum
Snagging is the formation of yarn pulls on the surface of a fabric.

Stretch and Set
ACT has chosen not to establish a minimum requirement for this performance characteristic since the ability of a fabric to return to its initial state is strongly impacted by factors that are attributed to furniture construction and fabrication such as the density of foam. The SAE J855 test can be used to evaluate the stretch and set of a knit fabric; however, ACT suggests that you consult with both your fabric supplier and furniture manufacturer to determine if there are any potential issues.

Wrapped Panels and Upholstered Walls
Breaking Strength
ASTM D5034 (Grab Test), 35 lbs. minimum in warp and weft.

Drapery
Tear Strength
ASTM D42261 1.5 lbs. minimum both directions