Our reliable, high-performance fabric testing within our in-house lab means we can ensure optimum performance for all of our products.
Abrasion
Durability against harsh surfaces found on most boats is key in our industry, which is why we go above and beyond the industry standards when testing the abrasion resistance of fabrics.
In order to mimic the harsh surface of a deck for instance, we change worsted cloth for 320 grit paper.
Our abrasion tests are carried out on our outerwear products, particularly those worn on a boat.
Although we test the main body of the fabric, the most important element is the reinforced fabric on the knees and seat.
Corrosion
Salt water causes zips and other metal products to corrode, making the metal weak and brittle. To ensure the longevity of our metal trims we submerge a sample in salt water for four hours and then mimic the effect of heat and humidity by placing it in an oven at 70 degrees for an initial period of 24hrs, followed by a week if required. Our metal trims failing this test is simply not an option.
Our corrosion tests are carried out on metal trims such as zips and eyelets, particularly for those products where their trims are exposed to salt water or a pfd (personal flotation device).
Spray Testing
Spray testing is imperative when looking at the performance of a durable water repellent (dwr) finish on the surface of a fabric. The objective of this test is to ensure that water ‘beads’ off the surface of the fabric and is not absorbed.
The testing is carried out on all waterproof fabrics, particularly those which will be constantly showered with water. This ensures you are 100% protected from the elements.
Whatever your water-based activity, gill has you covered.
Breathability
Allowing a product to let perspiration escape is just as important as not allowing water in, particularly during active use. Of the three test methods available to show how many grams of water vapour are able to pass through a fabric, we use two, depending on the fabric type.
If you’ve ever felt that a waterproof jacket has ‘leaked’ then it could be perspiration from inside that you’re feeling, that’s why we also use a breathable membrane as well as a mesh lining. Whatever your water-based activity, gill has you covered.
Hydrostatic Head
To ensure all waterproof fabrics and products are fit for purpose, we test them by measuring how tall a column of water the fabric can hold before it begins to seep through. In order to claim true waterproof performance, the industry standard is set at a minimum of 1,500mm hh, we go above and beyond this requirement. Our waterproof gear is rated 5,000mm hh to 20,000+mm hh to ensure our customers have the confidence that their product will protect them against the harshest of conditions.
