ISO 108:1976

Overview

ISO 108:1976 - Textile machinery and accessories - Weaving looms - Definition of left and right sides defines a uniform method for designating the left and right sides of weaving looms. Published by ISO (Technical Committee ISO/TC 72) in 1976, this standard replaces the earlier ISO Recommendation R 108‑1959 and establishes the observer viewpoint used to determine loom orientation.

Key topics

• Observer viewpoint: The side of the loom is determined by taking the view against the run of the warp (also referred to in practice as against the chain let-off direction).
• Side designation rule: When an observer looks toward the loom against the warp feed direction, components and mechanisms located on the observer’s left are designated the left side, and those on the observer’s right are designated the right side.
• Applicability to mechanisms: The position (left or right) of all loom mechanisms, accessories and fittings is determined using the same viewpoint rule.
• Scope and intent: The standard is intended solely for orientation and designation - it does not specify dimensions, tolerances, or installation procedures.

Practical applications

ISO 108:1976 provides a simple, consistent rule for orientation that improves clarity and interoperability across textile engineering and manufacturing activities:

• Equipment manufacturers: use the standard to label loom assemblies, produce consistent assembly drawings, and specify component locations in product documentation.
• Design and engineering teams: apply the orientation rule in CAD drawings, electrical/mechanical layouts and when coordinating multi-supplier systems.
• Maintenance and service technicians: use left/right definitions for troubleshooting, parts replacement and work instructions to avoid ambiguity on the shop floor.
• Purchasing and spare parts management: standard side designation helps ensure correct ordering and interchangeability of left- and right‑hand components.
• Training and safety documentation: consistent orientation language reduces miscommunication in operating manuals and safety procedures.

Related standards

• ISO/TC 72 (Textile machinery and accessories) - technical committee responsible for related loom machinery standards.
• ISO Recommendation R 108‑1959 - predecessor to ISO 108:1976 (technically identical and superseded by ISO 108).

Keywords: ISO 108:1976, weaving looms, left and right sides, textile machinery, warp run, chain let-off, orientation, designation.