ASTM D1683/D1683M-11a

1.1 This test method measures the sewn seam strength in woven fabrics by applying a force perpendicular to the sewn seams.

Note 1 – The grab test procedure in Test Method D5034 shall be used to determine any characteristic in fabric that can affect the measurement of sewn seam strength.

1.1.1 This test method is applicable to sewn seams obtained from a previously sewn article or seams sewn with fabric samples using either a specific seam assembly (see Table 1), or production seam assemblies.

1.2 This test method is used when a breaking force to rupture, a minimum elongation, or both are required to determine the sewn seam strength, seam slippage, or seam integrity of a particular fabric for a specified end use.

Note 2 – This test method is used in conjunction with Test Method D5034, which is used to measure breaking force and elongation of textile fabrics. Sewn seams in woven fabrics can fail due to rupture, slippage, or any combination thereof. Rupture can be further categorized as failure or fabric, or sewing thread, or seam slippage.

1.3 This test method does not predict actual wear performance of a seam.

1.4 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.

1.5 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.