PU coated PVC Fabric used to create Inflatable Structures
We have carried out a series of physical tests for customers who create Inflatable structures from our PVC fabric. They were really pleased with the results so we thought it would be a good idea to share with all our customers and explain what the tests and results mean.
PU Coated PVC Fabric is suitable for Inflatable structures, mascots, signs, arches & decorations displayed at events, concerts, performances & advertising campaigns. The fabric has a high gloss finish and natural stretch making it ideal for Inflatables that need to have a visual impact. Due to its relative light weight and thickness, it has excellent sew and stitch properties. Also produces excellent UV print results.
You can see a fantastic example of our gold colour in action with Kubicek Visionair’s giant Inflatable golden bunnies created for the chocolatier Lindt.
https://kubicekvisionair.com/en/velikonoce-s-nafukovacim-zajickem-lindt/
The Physical strength tests that were carried out were Tear, Tensile, Bursting along with a Flammability test.
Tear Strength BS EN ISO 4674-1:2003 Method A.
Result: Length 84.2 N / Width 54.1 N
Tear strength is a measure of a material's resistance to tearing and is crucial in ensuring the durability and safety of inflatable structures.
A commonly used method is BS EN ISO 4674-1:2003 Method A. This method involves cutting a rectangular sample from the fabric and subjecting it to a controlled tear force until it breaks. The tear strength is then calculated based on the maximum force N (Newtons) required to tear the fabric.
The results of the test showed that the tear strength of the fabric was 84.2N in length and 54.1N in width.
These results demonstrate that the fabric has a high tear strength. When inflatable structures are in use, they are subject to various forces that can cause tears or rips in the fabric. A high tear strength helps to increase the lifespan of the inflatable and reduce the need for repairs.
Another important property of PVC inflatable fabric is tensile strength. Tensile strength is a measure of a material's ability to resist being pulled apart and is important in ensuring the overall strength and durability.
Tensile Strength: BS EN ISO 1421:2016
Results: Length 926.1 N / Width 260.0 N
This test involves cutting a rectangular sample from the fabric and subjecting it to a controlled pulling force until it breaks. The tensile strength is then calculated based on the maximum force required to break the fabric.
The results showed that the fabric had exceptional tensile strength (926.1N length, 260.0N width). The fabric can withstand a significant amount of force without breaking or deforming. Also indicates inflatable structures produced with it can withstand a variety of external forces, such as wind, rain, and pressure, without losing their shape or integrity.
Another fundamental property is bursting strength.
Bursting Strength: BS EN ISO 13938-2:2019
Results: 498.7 kPa
This method involves inflating a circular sample of the fabric with air until it bursts. The bursting strength is then taken based on the maximum pressure required to burst the fabric.
The fabric had a high bursting strength of 498.7 kPa indicating that the fabric can withstand significant pressure without rupturing, this is especially important in inflatable structures that are regularly inflated and deflated.
As you would expect Flammability is also a crucial property. The flammability of a fabric determines how easily it will burn or support combustion.
BS EN 71-2:2020
Result: Pass
The flame-resistant property of the fabric ensures it can withstand accidental exposure to heat or flame. The fabric can resist the ignition of flames and slow down the spread of fire. This is especially important for inflatable structures that are used in public spaces or events.
With strong results across the board manufacturers can rest assured they are making an excellent choice of fabric with all the required characteristics and properties to make not only visually stunning structures but ones that are durable, safe and long-lasting.
Please get in touch if you need to see the Official Laboratory results.