The Hydrostatic Head Tester apparatus determine the resistance of textile fabrics to penetration by water. It tests this at a constant rate of increase of pressure. The hydrostatic pressure support by a fabric is a measure of the resistance to the passage of water through the fabric.
The test starts by exposing the test sample to water. This is at an increasing pressure on one side and under standard conditions. This is until the penetration occurs in three different places. Finally, the pressure at which water penetrates the fabric at the third place is the result. That is the water resistance quality of textiles. The Hydrostatic Head Tester is most useful to test water repellent materials.
Hydrostatic Pressure Test
The hydrostatic pressure supported by a fabric is a measure of the resistance to the passage of water through the fabric. A test specimen is subjected to a equivalently increasing water pressure to one face until penetration occurs in three different places. The hydrostatic pressure when the water penetrates the fabric at the third place is noted.
Apparatus
The Hydrostatic Head Tester is manufactured using the following components:
- Testing Head: 100cm² (Ø112.8mm when used without the Adaptor Rings)
- Testing Head: Area of Ø75mm diameter (when used with the Adaptor Rings)
- High Pressure Gauge: 0 – 600 kPa
- Low Pressure Gauge: 0 – 60 kPa
Test Specimens
Prepare at least 5 test specimens from a batch sample, to ensure you have at least 3 valid test results. Test specimens shall be cut so that they easily fit over the test head area when clamped. Ensure the sample is not stretched over the test head area.
Care shall be taken when handling test specimens. Do not over handle the specimen, and make sure hands are always dry. When selecting test specimens, ensure they are free from creases and folds.