Revised SATRA test methods released

A number of footwear-related test method updates have recently been published.

SATRA has been providing the footwear industry with test methods for almost 100 years. These are produced through careful research and technical application, and are recognised around the world. Almost every footwear specification and international standard contains SATRA test methods of some kind. Test methods and standards are the key to ensuring that product performance is measured accurately and consistently. Without them, testing is meaningless.

Four SATRA test methods have been reviewed and recently republished. These are SATRA TM94, SATRA TM123, SATRA TM159 and SATRA TM335, all of which are detailed here.

SATRA TM94:2018 – ‘Breaking force and extension at break of shoe laces’ is used to determine the breaking force and extension at break of shoe laces of all types, in both dry and wet conditions. As the breaking force of shoe laces is widely recognised as the critical property, SATRA has simplified the less important extension determination, which can now be performed as part of the breaking force measurement.

SATRA TM123:2018 – ‘Closure strength of touch and close fasteners’ is a test method used to determine both the peel and shear strength of all touch and close fasteners, whether they are supplied on a roll or as part of complete footwear. This method was restructured to assist users in selecting the appropriate method, and it now also includes instructions to determine effective width.

SATRA TM159:2018 – ‘Cushioning properties’ was reviewed and updated to ensure that it reflects current SATRA testing procedures. This method is used to determine the cushioning properties of a material or assembly. Although it is primarily applicable to insocks (footbeds) and footwear midsoles, it can also be used to assess any material intended to provide cushioning.

SATRA TM335:1994 – ‘Colour fastness to water and perspiration’ has been republished as SATRA TM335:2018 – ‘Colour fastness to water or perspiration (petri dish method)’. The method is used to determine the likelihood of colour bleeding from a material due to the action of water or perspiration, and is applicable to all types of material. The method is specifically for testing using a petri dish.

A new SATRA test method entitled ‘colour fastness to water or perspiration (perspirometer method)’ is due to be published later this year as SATRA TM364. This will specify perspirometer testing.

SATRA test methods are not made available until they have been fully validated and peer reviewed by senior scientists and technologists at SATRA. For this reason, SATRA considers its test methods to be without equal and the most appropriate industry standards. Indeed, a number of SATRA test methods have been adopted into national and international standards published by other standards-making organisations.

Publishing Data

This article was originally published on page 40 of the April 2018 issue of SATRA Bulletin.

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