AIR PERMEABILITY

METHOD NUMBERS: ASTM D737, (EN/BS) ISO 9237

Frazier High Pressure Air Perm Tester

(Courtesy Frazier Instruments).

 WHAT IS IT?

This test measures the volume of air that can pass through a given area of
fabric at a given pressure. Akin to “breathability.”

 HOW IS IT DONE?

A fabric is clamped over a test chamber. A fan is adjusted to bring the

differential pressure to a set point (for calibration). The pressure reading is
then recorded. This is repeated multiple times randomly across the fabric and
the final value is the average of all readings.

 WHAT DO THE NUMBERS MEAN?

Results are reported as a volume of air passing over a specific area per unit
of time. It can be in US customary or metric.
Example:
3 2
US Customary: 5.5 ft /ft /min. (or C.F.M.)
2
Metric: 27.9 L/m /sec.

- Values between 2 to 8 C.F.M. for cotton fabric may suggest it’s downproof.
- Synthetic fabrics vary but generally below 2 is acceptable.

 WHY DO IT?

It is helpful to know the “breathability” of fabrics filled with natural or synthetic

materials. It may help in predicting downproofness, ease of care, and
manufacturing requirements.

Recommended for bedding and garments.

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