UK company James Heal unveils resource for performance testing
July 27, 2021 - United Kingdom
James Heal, part of the PPT group of companies, has unveiled a dedicated resource for performance testing – a new ‘microsite’. The website will provide resources on testing of technical textiles and fabrics which have technical and functional benefits such as comfort and safety, across a spectrum of applications - from PPE, bedding, outerwear to sports wear.
The global market leader of precision textile testing instruments and test materials has developed the new microsite to showcase its range of Performance Testing instruments, whilst also providing useful resources - such as articles, videos and guides - on how to test performance textiles.
The microsite was developed separately to the main company website because, says PPT group marketing manager, Jenny Montgomery “As a design and innovation leader in textile testing, it’s important for us to make information regarding our instruments and information resources easily accessible for our current and prospective customers. We decided to develop something outside of our primary website, to focus on this niche area of textile testing, and add value through an intuitive interface and personalised content, providing an easier way to learn about performance testing; why it’s needed, and to browse information based on specific applications.”
The testing equipment manufacturer says the new microsite will provide the most accurate, up-to-date information and share knowledge and expertise in the field of performance testing, across a wide spectrum of applications, including sportswear and activewear, outdoor wear, nonwovens, military apparel, bedding and mattresses, PPE, medical textiles, and tents and awnings.
Continuous innovation and consumer demand is driving the need for textile testing more than ever, and testing during development enables manufacturers and brands to better understand the capabilities of the fabric to inform their R and D and design decisions.
Compared with mainstream fashion garments, performance fabrics have technical or functional benefits, for comfort and/or safety. The rise in performance fabrics means there is a need for new and improved technology for testing, because the functionality of performance wear and technical textiles must be qualified by evidence.
“Therefore, it's crucial for sportswear brands to validate and substantiate claims on performance and functionality - for example, moisture control and breathability,” explains Montgomery.
The James Heal Performance Testing range has been built for a range of applications including moisture management, dry rate testing, water repellency and wet abrasion.