‘Starburst’ from SATRA sheds new light on leather test results
A strength test for leather that provides results with a single procedure has been devised by the UK research organisation SATRA.
Called 'Starburst', the new test is said to provide the same level of information as conventional methodologies, but without the need for two different tests and four separate test pieces.
The test takes its name from the eight-armed cut created in the circular test piece and is multi-directional. Once the test piece as been clamped around its outer edge, a steel ball is forced up against the back (flesh) surface until the sample ruptures in the weakest direction.
Measurement of both maximum force and movement of the steel ball provide data, which previously required both tensile and tear tests to be undertaken, each in two directions.
This means that SATRA member companies involved in leather upholstery can get the result of tests on their products much faster and at a lower price.
Tear strength and tensile properties are critical to leather's performance in products such as footwear and leathergoods. However, because the properties of the leather hide are directional, conventional tests have to be carried out on test pieces cut in different directions.
