5.1 This test method is considered satisfactory for the acceptance testing of commercial shipments of tire fabrics since this test method has been used extensively in the trade for acceptance testing. This test method is also considered satisfactory for quality control.

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 comparative tests 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. The test specimens should then be randomly assigned in equal numbers to each laboratory for testing. The average results from the two laboratories may be compared using appropriate statistical analysis and an acceptable probability level chosen by the two parties before the 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 with consideration to the known bias.

5.2 This test method is applicable for testing the air permeability of any fabric that is embedded in a rubber compound, but is particularly useful when testing chafer fabrics to be used in a tubeless tire construction. In tubeless tires, chafer fabric yarns that are not wick proof represent potential channels for air to pass through, and thus, this test method provides a prediction of chafer permeability.

5.3 Evaluation of air wicking in other fabric and cord components in such products as tires, rubber brake diaphragms, and pneumatic hoses, is useful.