DIN 53855-1 Textile Tests - Determination of Thickness of Textile Fabrics (Excluding Floor Coverings) - Apparent Density Above 0,05 Gcm3

DIN 53855-1 Textile Tests - Determination of Thickness of Textile Fabrics (Excluding Floor Coverings) - Apparent Density Above 0,05 g/ ^cm³

The standard “DIN 53855-1 Textile tests - Determination of the thickness of textile fabrics (excluding floor coverings) - Apparent density above 0,05 g/cm³”, published by the German Institute for Standardization (DIN) ^, describes a test method for measuring the thickness of most textile fabrics and similar flat textile structures. This standard is particularly applicable to materials with an apparent density (voluminous density) greater than 0,05 g/cm³ ^and explicitly excludes floor coverings (for floor coverings, the DIN 53855-3 standard applies).

This method determines thickness under a defined low pressure using a specialized measuring device, aiming to provide consistent and comparable results for quality control, material specification, and product development in the textile industry. It is particularly important for woven, knitted, and nonwoven fabrics, technical textiles, felts, and similar materials.

This standard has been superseded, and modern testing methods generally follow EN ISO 5084 or related ISO standards (e.g., ISO 9073-2 for nonwoven fabrics) that are closely consistent with the principles of the original DIN method.

The DIN 53855-1 standard defines compression-based thickness measurement using a special device:

• Base plate: Typically a flat surface approximately 12 cm in diameter.
• Measuring foot (pressure foot): 10 cm² or 25 cm²'Interchangeable contact areas. The foot and base plate must be perfectly flat and parallel.'
• Pressure: The applied pressure varies depending on the material density. Typically 5 g/cm³.² or 25 g/cm³² (Specific values ​​depend on the apparent density of the fabric).
• Display: A high-resolution (e.g., 0,01 mm or better) dial display or digital sensor, typically calibrated with measuring blocks for thicknesses up to 50 mm.
• Loading time: The foot is slowly lowered onto the sample, and after a 10-second hold under load to allow for stabilization, the thickness is read.

The device is typically mounted on a recessed, stable table that allows the sample to lie completely flat without edge effects. Measurements are usually taken on multiple samples (e.g., three) at different locations to account for variability, and the average thickness is calculated.

This design ensures repeatable results under standardized low-pressure conditions while minimizing deformation of soft or compressible textiles.

The DIN 53855-1 standard and its successors are commonly referenced for the following materials:

• Technical textiles and nonwoven fabrics
• Felt and protective materials
• Automotive and industrial fabrics
• Quality certificates and material data sheets (e.g., for surface coverings, absorbent felts, or filter media)

Since the method remains a reference point for thickness determination at low pressure, many product specifications still include the phrase "Thickness according to DIN 53855-1 standard".

The DIN 53855-1 standard is commonly used with the following:

• ISO 5077 Determination of dimensional change during washing and drying.
• ISO 6330 Home washing and drying procedures
• Other parts of the DIN 53855 standard series (covering additional requirements or textile types)
• ISO 5084: The current primary international equivalent for general textile thickness.
• ISO 9073-2 and EN 29073-2: Particularly for nonwoven fabrics.

Other thickness measurement methods are also available for high-pressure or specialized applications (e.g., using dome anvil micrometers).

In short, the DIN 53855-1 standard outlines a method for determining the dimensional change (shrinkage or expansion) of textile fabrics when subjected to defined conditions such as washing, drying, or finishing processes. This standard is part of the broader DIN 53855 series of standards, which focuses on dimensional stability testing of textile materials.

The DIN 53855-1 standard defines the following:

• A standardized procedure for measuring dimensional changes in textile materials.
• The conditions under which the fabrics are processed (e.g., washing, soaking, drying)
• Methods for labeling and measuring test samples

The primary objective of this standard is to ensure that textile materials maintain their intended size and shape during use and maintenance.

The testing method generally follows these steps.

• A defined area is marked on the fabric (usually a square or rectangle with reference points).
• Initial dimensions are measured.
• The sample is subjected to the specified processing conditions (e.g., washing, drying).
• The final dimensions are measured again.
• The percentage change in dimensions is calculated according to the specified formula. A negative value indicates contraction, while a positive value indicates expansion.

The basic test conditions are as follows:

• Standard atmospheric conditions (temperature and humidity) for sample conditioning.
• Specific washing and drying procedures (usually referring to other standards)
• Requirements for measurement accuracy and labeling techniques.

This standard is widely used in the following areas:

• Textile production (quality control of fabrics and garments)
• Clothing industry (ensuring proper fit after washing)
• Technical textiles (where dimensional stability is critical)
• Research and development of new textile materials.

The DIN 53855-1 standard was designed because without a standardized way of measuring dimensional stability, one of the most critical performance characteristics of textiles, the results would be inconsistent, unreliable, and often misleading. This standard is considered important for the following reasons:

• Prevents unwanted shrinkage or expansion.
• It protects product quality and suitability.
• It supports accurate labeling and compliance.
• It improves production control.
• It is indispensable for technical and industrial textiles.
• Ensures consistent product sizing after maintenance procedures.
• It helps manufacturers meet customer expectations and labeling requirements.
• It prevents problems such as garment deformation or improper fit.
• It supports the comparability of test results between laboratories.

In conclusion, the DIN 53855-1 standard provides a reliable and standardized framework for evaluating how textiles behave under real-life care conditions. By accurately measuring dimensional changes, it helps ensure product quality, durability, and consumer satisfaction across the textile industry.

For many years, our organization, with its competent and experienced staff, has been understanding the needs of its clients, providing the advanced testing services they require, and assisting them in the establishment, implementation, and improvement of management systems. Within this framework, we also provide testing services in accordance with the DIN 53855-1 standard.