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D2057-05 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
📐 Scope and Applicability
ASTM D2057 – 05 (Reapproved 2022) is a standardized laboratory procedure developed to evaluate the colorfastness of zipper stringers under laundering conditions that simulate home washing. The test method specifically addresses the alteration in the shade of the zipper tape and the degree of staining transferred to adjacent fabrics. As defined in Section 1.1, this method applies exclusively to the textile portion of zipper stringers utilizing tapes made from cotton, linen, manufactured organic fibers, or combinations thereof. The standard is issued under the fixed designation D2057 and mandates that values be reported in SI units, aligning with international testing protocols.
⚙️ Test Procedure and Evaluation
According to the Summary of Test Method (Section 4), the test specimen is placed in direct contact with a multifiber test cloth and subjected to laundering in standard home laundry and drying equipment. The wash cycle can be conducted with or without the addition of bleach to represent different laundering intensities or consumer habits. Upon completion of the mechanical action, the two core criteria are assessed using standardized reference scales.
| 🎯 Measured Property | 📏 Grading Tool | 📐 Reference Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Alteration in Shade (Color Change) | AATCC Gray Scale for Color Change | AATCC Evaluation Procedure 1 |
| Staining of Adjacent Fabric | AATCC Chromatic Transference Scale | AATCC Evaluation Procedure 3 |
💡 Technical Tip: For proper guidance on evaluating the results generated by this method, users are strongly advised to consult Practice D3692. This practice assists in selecting standard zippers for care-labeled apparel and household furnishings, ensuring the test results align with real-world end-use performance expectations.
📊 Key Measured Properties and Related Standards
While D2057 is a standalone test method for laundering, it operates within a broader framework of zipper durability testing overseen by Subcommittee D13.54 on Subassemblies. Understanding the ecosystem of related test methods is crucial for a comprehensive quality assurance program covering drycleaning, lightfastness, crocking, and physical properties.
| 🟦 Standard Designation | ⚙️ Test Method Title |
|---|---|
| D2051 | Durability of Finish of Zippers to Laundering |
| D2052 | Colorfastness of Zippers to Drycleaning |
| D2053 | Colorfastness of Zippers to Light |
| D2054 | Colorfastness of Zipper Tapes to Crocking |
| D2057 | Colorfastness of Zippers to Laundering (This Standard) |
| D2058 | Durability of Finish of Zippers to Drycleaning |
| D2059 | Resistance of Zippers to Salt Spray (Fog) |
| D2060 | Measuring Zipper Dimensions |
| D2061 | Strength Tests for Zippers |
| D2062 | Operability of Zippers |
The two principal metrics measured in D2057 are the class rating for Color Change and the class rating for Staining. These results allow manufacturers and specifiers to certify whether a zipper can withstand repeated domestic laundering without significant aesthetic degradation, which is critical for maintaining product quality in the apparel and furnishings sectors.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What does this test method specifically evaluate?
This method evaluates the alteration in shade (color change) of the zipper tape itself and the degree of staining it transfers to an adjacent multifiber test cloth during a simulated home laundering cycle, with or without bleach.
💡 What types of zipper materials are covered by D2057?
As specified in Section 1.1, this test method is applicable to zipper stringers where the tape component is made from cotton, linen, manufactured organic fibers, or any combination of these materials.
⚡ Which ASTM committee maintains this standard?
ASTM D2057 is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D13 on Textiles and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D13.54 on Subassemblies. The method was originally developed in cooperation with the Slide Fastener Association, Inc.
📌 What grading scales are used to quantify the results?
The alteration in shade is assessed using the AATCC Gray Scale for Color Change. The staining of the adjacent fabric is assessed using the AATCC Chromatic Transference Scale, as defined by AATCC Evaluation Procedures 1 and 3 respectively.