ISO 9073-5:2008

Overview - ISO 9073-5:2008 (ball burst procedure)

ISO 9073-5:2008 is an international test method for textiles - specifically for nonwoven fabrics - that specifies how to determine resistance to mechanical penetration using a ball burst procedure. The method is intended primarily for nonwovens with some degree of elasticity, where a conventional burst test is not appropriate. It defines the test principle, required apparatus, specimen selection and conditioning, test procedure, reporting requirements and guidance on precision.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope: Measures resistance to penetration by a polished ball of given diameter for elastic nonwovens.
• Apparatus:
  • Converted constant-rate-of-traverse (CRT) tensile-testing machine used in compression mode.
  • Polished steel ball (standard diameter 25.400 ± 0.005 mm, spherical to within 0.005 mm). Size may be varied if agreed by parties.
  • Ring clamp (internal diameter 44.500 ± 0.025 mm); clamps specimen under tension.
• Specimens and conditioning:
  • Specimen size: at least 125 mm square (or 125 mm diameter circle).
  • Samples taken in accordance with ISO 186; conditioned in standard atmosphere per ISO 139 unless otherwise agreed.
  • Default sample count: five specimens (unless specified otherwise).
• Procedure:
  • Ball is driven downward at (300 ± 10) mm/min until rupture; record burst force to the nearest 5 N.
  • Set travel so ball does not contact the lower stage.
  • Verify system with a standard material regularly (recommended daily or at minimum weekly).
• Test report: Must include reference to ISO 9073-5, specimen details, machine and ball/ring sizes, load cell, software, conditioning, individual and mean burst forces, and any deviations.
• Precision and sources of variation:
  • Annex A gives limited inter-laboratory precision data (three labs).
  • Annex B lists common causes of poor precision: machine models, load cell size, software, humidity (e.g., 50% or 65%), preconditioning, calibration and operator training.

Practical applications

• Evaluating mechanical resistance and durability of elastic nonwoven materials used where localized puncture/penetration resistance matters.
• Useful in quality control, material comparison, incoming inspection, and R&D when designing or specifying nonwoven components.
• Relevant sectors: hygiene and absorbent products, medical disposables, technical textiles, filtration, and other applications where stretchy nonwovens are used.

Who should use this standard

• Textile testing laboratories and QC teams
• Nonwoven manufacturers and material suppliers
• Product designers and R&D engineers specifying material performance
• Procurement and compliance professionals preparing material specifications

Related standards

• ISO 9073 (other parts) - Test methods for nonwovens
• ISO 139 - Standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing
• ISO 186 - Sampling to determine average quality
• ISO 10012 - Measurement management systems
• ISO 9092 - Definition: nonwovens

Keywords: ISO 9073-5:2008, ball burst, nonwovens test, resistance to mechanical penetration, CRT tensile-testing machine, ring clamp, textile testing.