ASTM D5446-08(2013)

5.1 Every ASTM test method listed in 5.2 The physical testing procedures in this practice can be used in conjunction with lot sampling procedures as a basis for acceptance testing of commercial shipments of inflatable restraint fabrics. They may be used to establish the criteria by which inflatable restraint fabrics will be tested by the supplier to determine whether a lot of material is acceptable for shipment to the purchaser.

5.3 This practice addresses all the physical properties that describe inflatable restraint fabrics and their commonly used test methods. Unless otherwise specified by agreement of purchaser and supplier, these standard test methods shall constitute the test conditions, procedures, and equipment used to determine the physical properties of fabrics used in inflatable restraints. It is intended to be used as a guideline in establishing a written material specification. The specification or agreement of purchaser and supplier may deviate from the practices described herein when (based on experience) considerations of fabric properties, material handling equipment, or inflatable restraint system design dictate otherwise.

1.1 This practice is a listing of the test methods commonly employed in determining the physical properties of fabrics and yarns used in the manufacture of inflatable restraints.

1.2 Fabrics used in the manufacture of inflatable restraints may be coated or uncoated, and may be comprised of spun yarns, continuous filament yarns, or a combination thereof.

1.3 Fabrics used in the manufacturer of inflatable restraints may be either flat or one piece woven. For the one-piece woven, follow the sampling section of D5446 and the individual test method.

1.4 In Section 9, this practice lists is alphabetical order the procedures associated with conducting physical testing of the following fabric or yarn properties of concern to the design and manufacture of inflatable restraints.

1.5 This practice may be used in conjunction with Practice D5427 which prescribes standard practices for the accelerated aging of inflatable restraint fabrics when comparative results of physical properties before and after accelerated aging are required.

1.6 Procedures and apparatus other than those stated in this practice may be used by agreement of purchaser and supplier with the specific deviations from the standard practice acknowledged in the report.

1.7 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not exact equivalents; therefore, each system must be used independent of the other.

1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.