This test method may be used for acceptance testing of commercial shipments of nonwoven fabrics, however, caution is advised since information about between-laboratory precision is incomplete. A comparative test as directed in 5.1.1 may be advisable.

5.1.1 In case of a dispute arising from differences in reported test results when using this test method for acceptance testing of commercial shipments, the purchaser and the supplier should conduct a comparative test to determine if there is a statistical bias between their laboratories. Competent statistical assistance is recommended for the investigation of bias. As a minimum, the two parties should take a group of test specimens that are as homogeneous as possible and that are from a lot of material of the type in question. Test specimens should then be randomly assigned in equal numbers to each laboratory for testing. The average results from the two laboratories should be compared using the appropriate Student't-test and an acceptable probability level chosen by the two parties before testing is begun. If a bias is found, either its cause must be found and corrected or the purchaser and the supplier must agree to interpret future test results in the view of the known bias.

This test method measures the drape stiffness of the nonwoven fabric. This test is not, however, suitable for very limp fabrics or those that show a marked tendency to curl or twist.

FIG. 1 Cantilever Bending Tester