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D4117-01 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
ASTM D4117-01 outlines performance requirements for woven fabrics used in women’s and girls’ intimate apparel, including robes, negligees, nightgowns, pajamas, slips, and lingerie. This specification applies to all fiber types and blends, with requirements evaluated in both length and width directions. Users must also adhere to safety and regulatory guidelines, particularly the Flammable Fabrics Act Regulations.
📜 Scope and Application
This performance specification covers woven fabrics comprised of any textile fiber or mixture of fibers used in women’s and girls’ robes, negligees, nightgowns, pajamas, slips, or lingerie. Requirements apply to both fabric directions where pertinent. The standard does not address all safety concerns; it is the user’s responsibility to establish safety practices and comply with regulatory limitations before use.
🔬 Referenced Test Methods and Evaluation
D4117-01 references various ASTM and AATCC test methods to assess fabric properties. These include tests for yarn slippage (ASTM D434), tearing strength (ASTM D1424 and ASTM D2261), breaking strength (ASTM D5034), and dimensional changes (AATCC 135). Colorfastness is evaluated against light, washing, perspiration, drycleaning, and chlorine or non-chlorine bleach using AATCC methods. The current edition of each cited test method prevails as specified in Note 1 of the standard.
| 🟦 Test Method | 📏 Property Evaluated | 🎯 Applicability |
|---|---|---|
| ASTM D5034 | Breaking Strength and Elongation | Tensile integrity |
| ASTM D1424 | Tearing Strength (Elmendorf) | Tear resistance |
| AATCC 135 | Dimensional Changes in Laundering | Shrinkage control |
| AATCC 61 | Colorfastness to Washing | Color retention |
💡 Note: The standard requires the use of the current edition of each referenced test method. Ensure you have the latest versions for accurate compliance testing.
📘 Terminology and Classification
Term D4117-01 defines “sheer” as a fabric that is transparently thin or diaphanous. However, the standard acknowledges that no clear distinction exists between sheer and non-sheer fabrics; classification should be agreed upon in advance between the purchaser and seller. For other textile terms, refer to Terminology D123 or individual test methods.
⚠️ Safety Reminder: This standard refers to 16 CFR Chapter II – Flammable Fabrics Act Regulations. Users must comply with these regulations for fabrics used in intimate apparel.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the scope of ASTM D4117-01?
It covers woven fabrics for women’s and girls’ robes, negligees, nightgowns, pajamas, slips, and lingerie, made from any textile fiber or blend.
💡 How is “sheer” fabric defined?
It is defined as transparently thin or diaphanous, but classification requires agreement between purchaser and seller due to no clear distinction.
⚡ What key test methods are referenced?
Methods include ASTM D5034 for breaking strength, ASTM D1424 for tearing strength, AATCC 135 for dimensional changes, and AATCC 61 for colorfastness to washing.
📌 What safety regulations apply?
The standard references 16 CFR Chapter II, Subchapter D – Flammable Fabrics Act Regulations, for flammable fabric compliance.