ASTM D3512/D3512M-22

Standard Test Method for Pilling Resistance and Other Related Surface Changes of Textile Fabrics: Random Tumble Pilling Tester

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Acceptance Testing—This method of testing fabrics for resistance to pilling is not recommended for acceptance testing. If it is used for acceptance testing, it should be used with caution because the between-laboratory precision is poor. In some cases the purchaser and the supplier may have to test a commercial shipment of one or more specific materials by the best available test method, even though the test method is not recommended for acceptance testing.  
5.1.1 If there are differences or practical significance between reported test results for two laboratories (or more), comparative tests should be performed to determine if there is a statistical bias between them, using competent statistical assistance. As a minimum, the test samples should be used that are as homogeneous as possible, drawn from the material from which the disparate test results were obtained, and randomly assigned in equal numbers to each laboratory for testing. Other materials with established test values may be used for this purpose. The test results from the two laboratories should be compared using a statistical test for unpaired data, at a probability level chosen prior to the testing series. If a bias is found, either its cause must be found and corrected, or future test results must be adjusted in consideration of the known bias.  
5.2 The pilling of textile fabrics is a very complex property because it is affected by many factors which may include type of fiber or blends, fiber dimensions, yarn and fabric construction, fabric finishing treatments and refurbishing method. Testing before refurbishing may be adviseable. The pilling resistance of a specific fabric in actual wear varies more with general conditions of use and individual wearers than in replicate fabric specimens subjected to controlled laboratory tests. This experience should be borne in mind when adopting levels of acceptability for any series of standards.  
5.3 Pills vary appreciably in size and appearance and de...
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the propensity of a fabric to form pills and other related surface changes on textiles using the random tumble pilling tester. The procedure is generally applicable to all types of woven and knitted apparel fabrics.  
Note 1: For other test methods for the pilling resistance of textiles, refer to Test Methods D3511/D3511M, D3514/D3514M, and D4970/D4970M.  
1.2 Some fabrics that have been treated with a silicone resin may not be satisfactorily tested by this procedure because the silicone resin may transfer onto the cork liners in the test chamber and cause erroneous results.  
1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Oct-2022
• ICS: 59.080.30 - Textile fabrics
• Technical Committee: D13 - Textiles
• Drafting Committee: D13.60 - Fabric Physical Test Methods B

Relations

• Refers: ASTM D3514/D3514M-16(2020) - Standard Test Method for Pilling Resistance and Other Related Surface Changes of Textile Fabrics: Elastomeric Pad
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2020
• Refers: ASTM D1776/D1776M-20 - Standard Practice for Conditioning and Testing Textiles
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2020
• Refers: ASTM F104-11(2020) - Standard Classification System for Nonmetallic Gasket Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2020
• Refers: ASTM D4850-13(2017) - Standard Terminology Relating to Fabrics and Fabric Test Methods
• Effective Date: 15-Jul-2017
• Refers: ASTM D123-17 - Standard Terminology Relating to Textiles
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2017
• Refers: ASTM D3514/D3514M-16 - Standard Test Method for Pilling Resistance and Other Related Surface Changes of Textile Fabrics: Elastomeric Pad
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2016
• Refers: ASTM D4970/D4970M-16e2 - Standard Test Method for Pilling Resistance and Other Related Surface Changes of Textile Fabrics: Martindale Tester
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2016
• Refers: ASTM D4970/D4970M-16e1 - Standard Test Method for Pilling Resistance and Other Related Surface Changes of Textile Fabrics: Martindale Tester
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2016
• Refers: ASTM D1776/D1776M-16 - Standard Practice for Conditioning and Testing Textiles
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2016
• Refers: ASTM D4970/D4970M-16 - Standard Test Method for Pilling Resistance and Other Related Surface Changes of Textile Fabrics: Martindale Tester
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2016
• Refers: ASTM D123-15b - Standard Terminology Relating to Textiles
• Effective Date: 15-Sep-2015
• Refers: ASTM D123-15a - Standard Terminology Relating to Textiles
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2015
• Refers: ASTM D3511/D3511M-15 - Standard Test Method for Pilling Resistance and Other Related Surface Changes of Textile Fabrics: Brush Pilling Tester
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2015
• Refers: ASTM D123-15 - Standard Terminology Relating to Textiles
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2015
• Refers: ASTM D1776/D1776M-15 - Standard Practice for Conditioning and Testing Textiles
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2015

Overview

ASTM D3512/D3512M-22 is the internationally recognized standard test method for evaluating the pilling resistance and surface changes of textile fabrics using a Random Tumble Pilling Tester. Published by ASTM International, this method simulates the wear and tear that textiles undergo during use, particularly the formation of pills-small fiber balls or knots that appear on the fabric surface. The procedure is suitable for a wide range of woven and knitted apparel fabrics, helping manufacturers and quality assurance professionals assess product durability and appearance retention.

Key Topics

• Pilling Resistance: The main focus of ASTM D3512/D3512M-22 is objectively measuring a fabric's tendency to form pills through controlled laboratory simulation.
• Surface Changes: Besides pilling, the test observes additional surface effects such as fuzzing and loss of fabric cover.
• Test Procedure: The method involves tumbling fabric specimens inside a cylinder lined with a mildly abrasive cork surface, along with small amounts of standardized cotton fibers. Pills are formed by random rubbing, and the degree of pilling is rated by comparison with photographic or fabric visual standards.
• Evaluation: Results are reported on a scale from 5 (no pilling) to 1 (very severe pilling), allowing for consistent subjective assessment across different laboratories.
• Limitations: The standard notes that interlaboratory precision is limited, making this method less suitable for formal acceptance testing without supplemental comparative procedures.
• Factors Affecting Results: Fabric construction, fiber type, finishing treatments, and testing before or after laundering/dry cleaning all influence outcomes.

Applications

ASTM D3512/D3512M-22 is widely used across the textile and apparel industry for:

• Quality Control: Ensuring consistent fabric performance with regard to visual appearance and durability, especially for garments where aesthetics are key.
• Product Development: Comparing different fabric constructions, blends, and finishes to select the most pill-resistant options.
• Performance Claims: Supporting marketing statements about a textile’s resistance to pilling.
• Customer-Supplier Agreements: Providing an objective, standardized measure for batch comparison, aiding in negotiations and product specifications.
• Research and Development: Evaluating how specific treatments or fiber changes impact the overall longevity and look of a textile product.

Note: Due to the potential for variable results between laboratories, results should be interpreted cautiously in commercial transactions unless comparative or in-house standards are used.

Related Standards

For comprehensive assessment of textile pilling, the following related ASTM standards are often referenced alongside ASTM D3512/D3512M-22:

• ASTM D3511/D3511M: Brush Pilling Test Method for Pilling Resistance and Related Surface Changes
• ASTM D3514/D3514M: Elastomeric Pad Pilling Test Method
• ASTM D4970/D4970M: Martindale Tester Pilling Resistance Method
• ASTM D123: Terminology for Textiles
• ASTM D1776/D1776M: Practice for Conditioning and Testing Textiles
• ASTM D4850: Terminology Relating to Fabrics and Fabric Test Methods

These methods provide alternative approaches or complementary assessments of textile surface durability, enabling a holistic quality control framework.

---

Keywords: ASTM D3512/D3512M-22, textile pilling resistance, random tumble pilling tester, woven fabric testing, knitted fabric testing, surface changes, fuzz, pill formation, textile durability standards, fabric rating scale.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: D3512/D3512M − 22
Standard Test Method for
Pilling Resistance and Other Related Surface Changes of
Textile Fabrics: Random Tumble Pilling Tester
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D3512/D3512M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the
year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last
reapproval. A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the pro-
2.1 ASTM Standards:
pensity of a fabric to form pills and other related surface
D123 Terminology Relating to Textiles
changes on textiles using the random tumble pilling tester. The
D1776/D1776M Practice for Conditioning and Testing Tex-
procedure is generally applicable to all types of woven and
tiles
knitted apparel fabrics.
D3511/D3511M Test Method for Pilling Resistance and
Other Related Surface Changes of Textile Fabrics: Brush
NOTE 1—For other test methods for the pilling resistance of textiles,
Pilling Tester
refer to Test Methods D3511/D3511M, D3514/D3514M, and D4970/
D4970M.
D3514/D3514M Test Method for Pilling Resistance and
Other Related Surface Changes of Textile Fabrics: Elas-
1.2 Some fabrics that have been treated with a silicone resin
tomeric Pad
may not be satisfactorily tested by this procedure because the
D4850 Terminology Relating to Fabrics and Fabric Test
silicone resin may transfer onto the cork liners in the test
Methods
chamber and cause erroneous results.
D4970/D4970M Test Method for Pilling Resistance and
1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
Other Related Surface Changes of Textile Fabrics: Mar-
are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in
tindale Tester
each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each
F104 Classification System for Nonmetallic Gasket Materi-
system shall be used independently of the other. Combining
als
values from the two systems may result in non-conformance
with the standard. 2.2 ASTM Adjuncts:
12-435120-00 Set of 5 Photographic Standards for Random
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
Tumble Pilling Test
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
3. Terminology
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
3.1 For all terminology related to D13.59, Fabric Test
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
Methods, General, see Terminology D4850.
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
3.1.1 Thefollowingtermsarerelevanttothisstandard:fuzz,
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
pilling resistance, pills.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical 3.2 For all other terminology related to textiles, see Termi-
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee. nology D123.
1 2
This test method is under the jurisdiction ofASTM Committee D13 on Textiles For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D13.60 on Fabric Physical Test contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Methods B. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2022. Published November 2022. Originally the ASTM website.
approved in 1976. Last previous edition approved in 2016 as D3512 – 16. DOI: Available from ASTM International Headquarters. Order Adjunct No.
10.1520/D3512_D3512M-22. ADJD3512.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D3512/D3512M − 22
4. Summary of Test Method appearance, it is suggested that fabrics tested in the laboratory
be evaluated subjectively with regard to their acceptability and
4.1 Pilling and other changes in surface appearance, such as
not rated solely on the number of pills developed. A series of
fuzzing, that occur in normal wear are simulated on a labora-
standards, based on graduated degrees of surface change of the
tory testing machine. Pills are caused to form on fabric by a
fabric type being tested, may be set up to provide a basis for
random rubbing action produced by tumbling specimens in a
subjective ratings. The visual standards are most advantageous
cylindrical test chamber lined with a mildly abrasive material.
when the laboratory test specimens correlate closely in appear-
Toformpillswithappearanceandstructurethatresemblethose
ance with worn fabrics and show a similar ratio of pills to fuzz.
produced in actual wear, small amounts of short-length gray
Counting the pills and weighing their number with respect to
cotton fiber are added to each test chamber with the specimens.
their size and contrast, as a combined measure of pilling
The degree of fabric pilling is evaluated by comparison of the
resistance, is not recommended because of the excessive time
tested specimens with visual standards that may be actual
required for counting, sizing, and calculating.
fabrics, or photographs of fabrics, showing a range of pilling
5.4 The degree of fabric pilling is evaluated by comparing
resistance. The observed resistance to pilling is reported using
the tested specimens with visual standards, which may be
an arbitrary rating scale.
actual fabrics or photographs of fabrics, showing a range of
pilling resistance.The observed resistance to pilling is reported
5. Significance and Use
on an arbitrary scale ranging from 5 (no pilling) to 1 (very
5.1 Acceptance Testing—This method of testing fabrics for
severe pilling).
resistancetopillingisnotrecommendedforacceptancetesting.
5.5 This test method is applicable to a wide variety of
If it is used for acceptance testing, it should be used with
woven and knitted fabrics that vary in pilling propensity as a
caution because the between-laboratory precision is poor. In
result of variations in fiber, yarn and fabric structure, and
some cases the purchaser and the supplier may have to test a
finish.
commercial shipment of one or more specific materials by the
best available test method, even though the test method is not
6. Apparatus and Materials
recommended for acceptance testing.
6.1 Random Tumble Pilling Tester (Fig. 1):
5.1.1 If there are differences or practical significance be-
tween reported test results for two laboratories (or more), 6.1.1 Cork Cylinder Liners, about 146 mm [5.75 in.] wide
by 452 mm [17.81 in] long cut from 1.5-mm [.063-in.] thick
comparative tests should be performed to determine if there is
a statistical bias between them, using competent statistical flat sheets of Type P2117A material conforming to Classifica-
tion System F104, Appendix X1. The original surface of the
assistance.As a minimum, the test samples should be used that
liner, produced by slicing the material, should be used without
are as homogeneous as possible, drawn from the material from
any further treatment such as sanding. Store liners in original
which the disparate test results were obtained, and randomly
packaging in a cool, dry place.
assigned in equal numbers to each laboratory for testing. Other
6.1.2 Air Injection Device to give 14-21 kPa [2-3 psi] air
materials with established test values may be used for this
pressure in each test chamber, either included in new testers or
purpose. The test results from the two laboratories should be
a modification to older testers.
compared using a statistical test for unpaired data, at a
probability level chosen prior to the testing series. If a bias is
6.2 Adhesive , white all-purpose, for sealing edges of speci-
found, either its cause must be found and corrected, or future
mens (see 7.1).
test results must be adjusted in consideration of the known
6.3 Plastic Bottle, with dispensing spout and cap, for use
bias.
with diluted adhesive.
5.2 The pilling of textile fabrics is a very complex property
6.4 VacuumCleaner,homecanistertype,tocleanspecimens
because it is affected by many factors which may include type
after testing.
of fiber or blends, fiber dimensions, yarn and fabric
6.5 Cotton Sliver ,4301 tex [approximately 73 Grain
construction, fabric finishing treatments and refurbishing
Count], U.S. upland cotton with a micronaire range of 3.8-4.2
method. Testing before refurbishing may be adviseable. The
with a minimum staple length range of 1.08-1.10 in. (or 35/32
pilling resistance of a specific fabric in actual wear varies more
in., no metric conversion) measured by USDA High Volume
with general conditions of use and individual wearers than in
Instrument Classification.
replicate fabric specimens subjected to controlled laboratory
tests. This experience should be borne in mind when adopting
6.6 Apparatus for Fabric Evaluation—Facilities for illumi-
levels of acceptability for any series of standards.
nation (cool white fluorescent tube) and simultaneous viewing
of test specimen and fabric or photograph rating standards.
5.3 Pills vary appreciably in size and appearance and
Apparatus and options for visual evaluation are listed in Table
depend on the presence of lint and degree of color contrast.
1.
These factors are not evaluated when pilling is rated solely on
the number of pills. The development of pills may be accom-
panied by other surface phenomena such as loss of cover, color
Apparatus and accessories are commercially available.
change, or the development of fuzz. Since the overall accept-
Cotton dyed to a medium gray shade before carding using a colorfast reactive
ability of a specific fabric is dependent on both the character-
black dye and standard reactive dyeing procedure. Cotton sliver is available
istics of the pills and the other factors affecting surface commercially.
D3512/D3512M − 22
6.8.2 Photographic— A set of five photographs, 105-mm
square [4.13 in.], numbered 1 to 5 illustrating varying degrees
of pilling from “very severe pilling” to “no pilling” such as
Adjunct D3512. The photos should have a dull matte finish
and be of the same size as the tested specimen.
6.8.3 Digital Imaging or Rating System, or both.
6.9 Facilities for Laundering Samples—If needed.
6.10 Facilities for Dry Cleaning Samples—If needed.
7. Hazardous Materials
7.1 Adhesives used in this test method may be hazardous.
Refer to the manufacturer’s material safety data sheets for
information on use, handling, storage, and disposal of these
products.
8. Sampling
8.1 Primary Sampling Unit—Consider rolls of fabric or
fabric components of fabricated systems to be the primary
sampling unit, as applicable.
NOTE 2—An adequate specification or other agreement between the
purchaser and the supplier requires taking into account the variability
amongrolls,bolts,orpiecesoffabricandamongspecimensfromaswatch
of fabric from a roll, bolt, or piece, or between cartons of garments and
among garments within a carton, to provide a sampling plan with a
meaningful producer’s risk, consumer’s risk, acceptable quality level, and
limiting quality level.
8.2 Laboratory Sampling Unit—From each primary sam-
pling unit take one full-width piece of fabric that is1m[1yd]
in length along the selvage (machine direction), after first
removing a 1 m [1 yd] length. For fabric components of
fabricated systems use the entire system.
8.2.1 For acceptance testing of garments, take one garment
from each carton (see Note 2).
FIG. 1 Random Tumble Piling Tester
9. Test Specimens: Selection, Number, and Preparation
TABLE 1 Viewing Apparatus and Options 9.1 Samples may be washed or dry cleaned before cutting
the test specimens, using conditions appropriate for the fabric
Apparatus Specimen Preparation
A
ASTM Lightbox (Fig. 1) 0.78 rad [45°]
end use or conditions agreed upon by all interested parties.
B
Lightbox 0.78 rad [45°]
B
Lightbox flat 9.2 Cut specimens in squares 105 mm [4.13 in.] on the bias
B
Lightbox critical angle
at an approximate 0.78 rad [45°] angle to the warp (wale) and
As determined by the buyer and supplier
filling (course) directions.
A
The sole source of supply of the apparatus known to the committee at this time
9.2.1 Take three specimens from each laboratory unit. Take
is Standard Scientific Supply Co., 601 West Market Street, Bethlehem, PA
the specimens evenly spaced ac
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: D3512/D3512M − 16 D3512/D3512M − 22
Standard Test Method for
Pilling Resistance and Other Related Surface Changes of
Textile Fabrics: Random Tumble Pilling Tester
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D3512/D3512M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the
year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last
reapproval. A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the propensity of a fabric to form pills and other related surface changes on
textiles using the random tumble pilling tester. The procedure is generally applicable to all types of woven and knitted apparel
fabrics.
NOTE 1—For other test methods for the pilling resistance of textiles, refer to Test Methods D3511/D3511M, D3514/D3514M, and D4970/D4970M.
1.2 Some fabrics that have been treated with a silicone resin may not be satisfactorily tested by this procedure because the silicone
resin may transfer onto the cork liners in the test chamber and cause erroneous results.
1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each
system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the
two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D123 Terminology Relating to Textiles
D1776/D1776M Practice for Conditioning and Testing Textiles
D3511/D3511M Test Method for Pilling Resistance and Other Related Surface Changes of Textile Fabrics: Brush Pilling Tester
D3514/D3514M Test Method for Pilling Resistance and Other Related Surface Changes of Textile Fabrics: Elastomeric Pad
D4850 Terminology Relating to Fabrics and Fabric Test Methods
D4970/D4970M Test Method for Pilling Resistance and Other Related Surface Changes of Textile Fabrics: Martindale Tester
F104 Classification System for Nonmetallic Gasket Materials
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D13 on Textiles and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D13.60 on Fabric Physical Test Methods,
SpecificMethods B.
Current edition approved July 1, 2016Nov. 1, 2022. Published July 2016November 2022. Originally approved in 1976. Last previous edition approved in 20142016 as
D3512 – 10D3512 – 16.(2014). DOI: 10.1520/D3512_D3512M-16.10.1520/D3512_D3512M-22.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D3512/D3512M − 22
2.2 ASTM Adjuncts:
12-435120-00 Set of 5 Photographic Standards for Random Tumble Pilling Test
3. Terminology
3.1 For all terminology related to D13.59, Fabric Test Methods, General, see Terminology D4850.
3.1.1 The following terms are relevant to this standard: fuzz, pilling resistance, pills.
3.2 For all other terminology related to textiles, see Terminology D123.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 Pilling and other changes in surface appearance, such as fuzzing, that occur in normal wear are simulated on a laboratory
testing machine. Pills are caused to form on fabric by a random rubbing action produced by tumbling specimens in a cylindrical
test chamber lined with a mildly abrasive material. To form pills with appearance and structure that resemble those produced in
actual wear, small amounts of short-length gray cotton fiber are added to each test chamber with the specimens. The degree of
fabric pilling is evaluated by comparison of the tested specimens with visual standards that may be actual fabrics, or photographs
of fabrics, showing a range of pilling resistance. The observed resistance to pilling is reported using an arbitrary rating scale.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Acceptance Testing—This method of testing fabrics for resistance to pilling is not recommended for acceptance testing. If it
is used for acceptance testing, it should be used with caution because the between-laboratory precision is poor. In some cases the
purchaser and the supplier may have to test a commercial shipment of one or more specific materials by the best available test
method, even though the test method is not recommended for acceptance testing.
5.1.1 If there are differences or practical significance between reported test results for two laboratories (or more), comparative tests
should be performed to determine if there is a statistical bias between them, using competent statistical assistance. As a minimum,
the test samples should be used that are as homogeneous as possible, drawn from the material from which the disparate test results
were obtained, and randomly assigned in equal numbers to each laboratory for testing. Other materials with established test values
may be used for this purpose. The test results from the two laboratories should be compared using a statistical test for unpaired
data, at a probability level chosen prior to the testing series. If a bias is found, either its cause must be found and corrected, or future
test results must be adjusted in consideration of the known bias.
5.2 The pilling of textile fabrics is a very complex property because it is affected by many factors which may include type of fiber
or blends, fiber dimensions, yarn and fabric construction, fabric finishing treatments and refurbishing method. Testing before
refurbishing may be adviseable. The pilling resistance of a specific fabric in actual wear varies more with general conditions of
use and individual wearers than in replicate fabric specimens subjected to controlled laboratory tests. This experience should be
borne in mind when adopting levels of acceptability for any series of standards.
5.3 Pills vary appreciably in size and appearance and depend on the presence of lint and degree of color contrast. These factors
are not evaluated when pilling is rated solely on the number of pills. The development of pills may be accompanied by other
surface phenomena such as loss of cover, color change, or the development of fuzz. Since the overall acceptability of a specific
fabric is dependent on both the characteristics of the pills and the other factors affecting surface appearance, it is suggested that
fabrics tested in the laboratory be evaluated subjectively with regard to their acceptability and not rated solely on the number of
pills developed. A series of standards, based on graduated degrees of surface change of the fabric type being tested, may be set
up to provide a basis for subjective ratings. The visual standards are most advantageous when the laboratory test specimens
correlate closely in appearance with worn fabrics and show a similar ratio of pills to fuzz. Counting the pills and weighing their
number with respect to their size and contrast, as a combined measure of pilling resistance, is not recommended because of the
excessive time required for counting, sizing, and calculating.
5.4 The degree of fabric pilling is evaluated by comparing the tested specimens with visual standards, which may be actual fabrics
Available from ASTM International Headquarters. Order Adjunct No. ADJD3512.
D3512/D3512M − 22
or photographs of fabrics, showing a range of pilling resistance. The observed resistance to pilling is reported on an arbitrary scale
ranging from 5 (no pilling) to 1 (very severe pilling).
5.5 This test method is applicable to a wide variety of woven and knitted fabrics that vary in pilling propensity as a result of
variations in fiber, yarn and fabric structure, and finish.
6. Apparatus and Materials
6.1 Random Tumble Pilling Tester (Fig. 1):
6.1.1 Cork Cylinder Liners, about 146 mm [5.75 in.] wide by 452 mm [17.81 in] long cut from 1.5-mm [.063-in.] thick flat sheets
of Type P2117A material conforming to Classification System F104, Appendix X1. The original surface of the liner, produced by
slicing the material, should be used without any further treatment such as sanding. Store liners in original packaging in a cool, dry
place.
6.1.2 Air Injection Device to give 14-21 kPa [2-3 psi] air pressure in each test chamber, either included in new testers or a
modification to older testers.
6.2 Adhesive ,white all-purpose, for sealing edges of specimens (see 7.1).
FIG. 1 Random Tumble Piling Tester
Apparatus and accessories are commercially available.
D3512/D3512M − 22
6.3 Plastic Bottle, with dispensing spout and cap, for use with diluted adhesive.
6.4 Vacuum Cleaner, home canister type, to clean specimens after testing.
6.5 Cotton Sliver,Sliver ,4301 tex [approximately 73 Grain Count], U.S. upland cotton with a micronaire range of 3.8-4.2 with a
minimum staple length range of 1.08-1.10 in. (or 35/32 in., no metric conversion) measured by USDA High Volume Instrument
Classification.
6.6 Apparatus for Fabric Evaluation—Facilities for illumination (cool white fluorescent tube) and simultaneous viewing of test
specimen and fabric or photograph rating standards. Apparatus and options for visual evaluation are listed in Table 1.
6.7 Standard In-House Pilling Test Fabric, having an established pilling resistance rating for checking machine performance. No
universal standard fabric is available. Each test facility must decide on an appropriate fabric.
6.8 Rating Standards:
6.8.1 Fabric—A series of tested specimens of a specific fabric type which shows degree of pilling or other distortion, or both, for
each type of fabric to be tested. Store the fabric rating standards and handle them under conditions that will preserve their original
form and appearance.
6.8.2 Photographic— A set of five photographs, 105-mm square [4.13 in.], numbered 1 to 5 illustrating varying degrees of pilling
from “very severe pilling” to “no pilling” such as Adjunct D3512. The photos should have a dull matte finish and be of the same
size as the tested specimen.
6.8.3 Digital Imaging or Rating System, or both.
6.9 Facilities for Laundering Samples—If needed.
6.10 Facilities for Dry Cleaning Samples—If needed.
7. Hazardous Materials
7.1 Adhesives used in this test method may be hazardous. Refer to the manufacturer’s material safety data sheets for information
on use, handling, storage, and disposal of these products.
8. Sampling
8.1 Primary Sampling Unit—Consider rolls of fabric or fabric components of fabricated systems to be the primary sampling unit,
as applicable.
TABLE 1 Viewing Apparatus and Options
Apparatus Specimen Preparation
A
ASTM Lightbox (Fig. 1) 0.78 rad [45°]
B
Lightbox 0.78 rad [45°]
B
Lightbox flat
B
Lightbox critical angle
As determined by the buyer and supplier
A
The The sole source of supply of the apparatus known to the committee at this
time is Standard Scientific Supply Co., 601 West Market Street, Bethlehem, PA
18018–5208. If you are aware of alternate suppliers, please provide this informa-
tion to ASTM Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consideration at a
meeting of the responsible technical committee, which you may attend.
B
Available Available commercially.
Cotton dyed to a medium gray shade before carding using a colorfast reactive black dye and standard reactive dyeing procedure. Cotton sliver is available commercially.
D3512/D3512M − 22
NOTE 2—An adequate specification or other agreement between the purchaser and the supplier requires taking into account the variability among rolls,
bolts, or pieces of fabric and among specimens from a swatch of fabric from a roll, bolt, or piece, or between cartons of garments and among garments
within a carton, to provide a sampling plan with a meaningful producer’s risk, consumer’
...