Toyota BSDL 2105G Standard Test Methods for Seat Fabrics for Strength and Durability

The standard “Toyota BSDL 2105G Standard test methods for seat fabrics regarding strength and durability” developed by the Toyota vehicle company describes test methods for determining the durability of seat fabrics used in vehicle upholstery.

Upholstery fabric used in vehicles is thicker than regular fabric, but it has different properties that make it more durable than other fabrics. Not all upholstery fabrics are the same. Some fabrics are better suited for backrests, some fabrics are best for seating, and some fabrics are better for armrests.

These fabrics are made from yarn. Fibers from plants like cotton, linen, and even hemp are spun together to make a rope or thread. These threads are then woven together to make fabric. The process is somewhat similar for synthetic fabrics like polyester. Synthetic fibers are spun together to make a synthetic thread, which is then woven into fabric. The finer the fibers, the softer the yarn and fabric. Sometimes the fabric is woven over a backing fabric to increase its strength and abrasion resistance, upholstery fabrics are often made this way.

Abrasion resistance is the number of times it takes for a fabric to wear, fray or pill when rubbed in both directions. Industrial strength fabric can withstand up to 50 rubs in each direction (i.e. 100 rubs back and forth) to wear down the fabric. Fabric durability is really important for high traffic areas where people are walking, sitting, standing and leaning.

There are several factors that contribute to the durability of upholstery fabrics. Each of these factors makes the fabric stronger, more durable, and gives it a unique feel. The tests focus on these features:

• Fiber length: The length of the individual fibers used to make the fabric from which the fabric yarn is woven contributes to the overall durability of the fabric. Natural fibers, such as linen, have longer fibers than cotton, which contributes to a stronger, more durable fabric. Synthetic fibers are made by combining longer fibers and finer fibers into yarn, creating a stronger, more durable fabric.
• Inner core: Upholstery fabric is a bit different from other fabrics in that it can have an inner core. When the fabric is knitted around a reinforcing inner core, the fabric gains extra strength and flexibility. While surface damage can still be a factor, the fabric integrity remains intact.
• The tensile quality of the weave: The tighter the weave, the stronger the fabric. When a fabric is loosely woven, the individual threads don’t have enough support to keep them from moving and rubbing. So while a loosely woven or knitted jersey might look great, it’s not the best choice for upholstery. Tensile quality also refers to how tightly each thread is pulled during the weaving process. Finer threads can be pulled tighter than thicker threads, creating a stronger fabric.
• Surface finish of the fabric: When upholstery fabric has a surface texture added to the smooth base texture of the fabric, such as velvet or embossed fabrics, the abrasion factor increases. This means that the fabric will wear or rub faster than a smooth fabric that does not provide additional friction.

Among the numerous testing, measurement, analysis and evaluation studies that our organization has carried out for businesses in various sectors, our organization also provides testing services defined in the standard “Toyota BSDL 2105G Standard test methods for seat fabrics regarding strength and durability” with its trained and expert staff and advanced technological equipment.