|
The properties of leather listed below are tested. The specifications to be achieved depends largely upon the type of leather to be produced and environmental conditions of the eventual destination of the finished product. For example, in Australia and parts of the U.S.A., South America and Africa good colourfastness to light is essential. For these markets we would not consider that a leather achieving less than rating 6 on the blue wool scale was appropriate.
In cold climates the finish must be specially adapted to ensure that the surface coating films flex adequately. In the automotive trade abrasion is considered an important property. For modern furniture, softness is the main requirement so the leather must have a good flex performance. Andrew Muirhead & Son hold a Kitemark License to BS6608: 1985 from the British standards Institution. The company is also approved by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and recognized by the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA). Additional physical and chemical tests may be carried out for a specific requirement, in accordance with manufacturer's instruction.
The following properties are tested on each batch as a minimum requirement for the furniture industry - in accordance with the British standard specification for cattle hide leathers for upholstered furniture BS6608: 1985
| Property |
Measurement |
Test Method |
| 1. Thickness |
mm |
BS3144 |
| 2. Tear strength |
Newtons |
BS3144 |
| 3. Flexing endurance |
No. of rubs before
cracking occurs |
BS3144 |
| 4. Adhesion of finish |
N/mm |
BS6453 |
5. Fastness of finish
**to rubbing |
|
|
| a) Dry |
No. of rubs before loss of original colour |
BS3144 |
| b) Wet |
No. of rubs before loss of original colour |
BS1006 |
6. Fastness to light:
** xenon arc |
Rating on blue wool scale |
BS1006 |
|
Technical Specifications:
All products featured on this site are manufactured to comply with the requirements of BS6608. Muirhead Leather also satisfies the requirement of Schedule 4 Part 1 Cigarette test and Schedule 5 Part 1 Match Test (modifications of BS5852: Part 1.) of the furniture and Furnishings Fire Safety Regulations 1988.
All Andrew Muirhead leathers comply with Schedule 5 Part 5 (Ignition Source 5) in conjunction with appropriate foam combination. Melrose and Sateen additionally meet Schedule 5 Part 7 on the same basis. Please consult with your DCT representative for best practice advice.
|
