EN 1415:1996

Overview

EN 1415:1996 is a European standard developed by CEN that specifies a standardized method for testing the resistance to slipping of threads in slit selvedges of touch and close fastener tapes. Commonly used in clothing accessories and headgear, touch and close fasteners such as hook-and-loop tapes rely heavily on the integrity of their edge structures-particularly slit selvedges for reliable fastening performance. This standard ensures consistency and quality control by defining the testing procedures to evaluate how well the threads hold in these slit edges, providing manufacturers and quality inspectors with a practical method to assess durability and performance.

Key Topics

• Touch and Close Fasteners: Also known as hook-and-loop fasteners, these are widely used fastening solutions where behavior of the tape edges significantly influences overall product reliability.
• Slit Selvedges: The cut or slit edges on fastener tapes where threads are prone to slipping. Ensuring these do not slip easily is crucial for product effectiveness.
• Resistance to Slipping: The standard’s primary focus is measuring how resistant the threads within the slit selvedges are to slipping or unraveling under stress.
• Test Methodology: A prescribed procedure for uniform measurement of thread slippage, providing repeatable and standardized test results.
• CEN Standardization: Establishes harmonized European testing practices facilitating consistent quality control across all member countries.

Applications

This standard is particularly relevant in industries and applications where touch and close fasteners are utilized and where edge integrity affects product performance, including:

• Headgear Manufacturing: Ensuring fasteners in caps, helmets, and other headwear remain securely attached during use.
• Clothing Accessories: Fasteners in garments such as jackets, gloves, and straps require sturdy selvedge edges to prevent premature failure.
• Textile Quality Control: Laboratories and manufacturers use EN 1415:1996 as a reference to maintain consistent production standards.
• Product Development: Designers and engineers apply this standard to evaluate new materials and fastening designs with slit selvedges.
• Compliance and Certification: Meeting this standard supports regulatory compliance in European markets and reassures consumers about product longevity.

Related Standards

To complement EN 1415:1996, various related standards might be considered for a holistic approach to fastener testing and specification:

• EN 340 Series – General performance requirements for protective clothing which may include fastener assessments.
• ISO 13934 – Methods for tensile properties of fabrics, relevant for understanding fabric-fastener interactions.
• EN 14404 – Protective gloves, detailing necessary fastener strength and durability.
• CEN Workshop Agreements (CWA) – Providing practical guidelines on fastener testing and evaluation beyond thread slipping.

By integrating EN 1415:1996 with these standards, manufacturers and testers can ensure comprehensive quality assurance and reliable product performance.

Keywords: EN 1415:1996, touch and close fasteners, slit selvedges, resistance to slipping, fastening tape, CEN standard, thread slippage test, clothing accessories, textile fastening quality, European fastener standards