Overview
SIST EN ISO 23910:2019 is a European and international standard that specifies a standardized method for measuring the stitch tear resistance of leather materials. Developed by CEN in collaboration with the International Union of Leather Technologists and Chemists Societies (IULTCS), this test method is applicable to all types of leather but is especially suited for leathers thicker than 1.2 mm. The standard ensures consistent, reliable, and repeatable results in assessing how resistant leather is to tearing along stitches, which is critical for quality control in leather manufacturing and product development.
Key Topics
- Test Principle: The method involves pulling a leather test piece against a mandrel inserted through a slit near the stitching to measure the force required to initiate a tear at the stitch.
- Sampling and Preparation:
- Test samples are cut with a press knife directly from conditioned leather.
- Samples must be oriented both parallel and perpendicular to the leather backbone for accurate testing.
- Conditioning follows ISO 2419 to stabilize the leather before testing.
- Apparatus:
- Tensile testing machine with force calibration compliant with ISO 7500-1:2018.
- A specially designed metal test piece holder and mandrel.
- Thickness gauge compliant with ISO 2589.
- A press knife designed to cut slits and test pieces consistently.
- Testing Procedure:
- Measure leather thickness near the slit.
- Secure the test piece holder in a tensile test machine.
- Insert the mandrel through the test slit and clamp the leather.
- Apply force at a controlled speed (100 ± 20 mm/min) until the stitch tear occurs.
- Record the maximum force (in newtons) during tearing.
- Test Reporting:
- Include reference to SIST EN ISO 23910:2019.
- Report leather thickness and tear loads in both orientations.
- Specify conditioning atmosphere and any deviations from the method.
- Provide detailed sample identification information.
Applications
This standard is essential for industries that rely on leather materials subjected to mechanical stress near stitched areas. Typical applications include:
- Leather Goods Manufacturing: Ensuring durability of bags, wallets, shoes, and upholstery by validating stitch strength.
- Quality Control: Assessing batches of leather for consistent mechanical properties before production.
- Material Research and Development: Enabling manufacturers to optimize leather processing methods to improve stitch tear resistance.
- Compliance Testing: Helping companies meet customer and regulatory standards related to leather performance.
The standardized test improves product reliability and consumer safety where leather stitching integrity is critical.
Related Standards
- ISO 2418: Leather - Sampling Location
- ISO 2419:2012: Leather - Sample Preparation and Conditioning
- ISO 2589: Leather - Thickness Determination
- ISO 7500-1:2018: Calibration and Verification of Tensile Testing Machines
- EN 15987: Leather - Terminology for the Leather Trade
These complementary standards ensure consistent sampling, measurement, and terminology, enhancing the overall accuracy and reproducibility of leather testing protocols.
SIST EN ISO 23910:2019 is a key reference for professionals in leather science, product testing laboratories, and manufacturers aiming to quantify and improve the mechanical performance of leather at stitched seams. Its rigorous methodology and clear reporting criteria promote transparency and quality assurance in the global leather industry.