Cold Flex Textile Laboratory Testing
Applus+ Reliable Analysis provides accurate mandrel cold flex testing to help textile and medical device manufacturers verify that coated fabrics and synthetic leather remain flexible and crack-resistant at low temperatures. Our expanded capabilities build on our existing cold flex and low-temperature accreditations within our ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory.
We use proven MTS mandrel fixtures and environmental chambers to deliver reliable results. As a result, you receive accurate data for medical seating covers, protective apparel, synthetic leather, and other materials designed for cold environments.
Mandrel cold flex testing bends conditioned specimens around mandrels with specified diameters at progressively lower temperatures. We then inspect each specimen for cracking, crazing, and coating failure. This evaluation is essential for medical exam table covers, hospital furnishings, protective garments, and automotive-medical hybrid textiles. These materials must remain flexible during cold storage, transportation, and winter conditions.
At Applus+ Reliable Analysis, we perform these evaluations with MTS E-028 flexural systems, E-076 low-temperature chambers, and high-resolution E-058 microscopes. We operate all equipment within our accredited scope. First, our team conditions each specimen to the required temperature. Next, we apply controlled bending around the specified mandrel. Finally, we document cracks, coating failures, and temperature thresholds with detailed images.
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Common Mandrel/Cold Flex Textile Testing Standards:
ASTM D2137 Flexible Polymers and Coated Fabrics
Applus+ Reliable Analysis performs ASTM D2137 mandrel cold flex testing using our MTS E-028 flexural fixtures and E-076 low-temperature chamber already accredited for cold performance evaluations. We bend coated textiles and synthetic leather around mandrels at progressively lower temperatures and inspect for cracking or failure. This test is essential for medical protective covers, seating materials, and cold-resistant fabrics that must remain flexible in low-temperature environments. You receive fast, ISO/IEC 17025-accredited results with clear pass/fail temperatures and microscopic images that help ensure your materials maintain integrity under cold conditions.
ISO 812 Rubber Determination of Low-Temperature Brittleness
We run ISO 812 low-temperature brittleness testing with mandrel/cold flex adaptation on our MTS equipment and low-temperature chamber for elastomeric and coated textiles. Specimens are bent around mandrels at reduced temperatures to determine the brittleness point. This method supports international medical and technical coated fabrics. You benefit from harmonized, globally recognized results that align with your export and quality standards.
GMW16746 Mandrel Cold Flex for Coated Textiles
Applus+ Reliable Analysis performs GMW16746 mandrel cold flex testing using our MTS fixtures and E-076 freezer for GM-specified coated textiles. The method evaluates cold crack resistance and flexibility at low temperatures. This supports medical seating covers and interior materials. You gain efficient, OEM-compliant results from a lab experienced with GM cold performance requirements.
FLTM BI 113 / BN Series Mandrel Cold Flex
We execute FLTM BI 113 and BN series mandrel cold flex testing on our current low-temperature equipment for Ford-specified coated textiles. Materials are bent around mandrels at reduced temperatures and inspected for cracking. This supports medical and interior fabric qualification. You receive reliable results integrated with our broader cold flex and chemical testing program.
SAE J Mandrel Cold Flex for Automotive Textiles
Reliable Analysis performs SAE-specified mandrel cold flex testing using our MTS and low-temperature chamber for automotive and technical medical textiles. The method assesses cold crack resistance under relevant conditions. This supports hybrid medical/automotive materials. You receive clear, SAE-aligned data integrated with our full cold performance testing capabilities.
ASTM D2137 Post-Chemical Exposure (Cold Flex)
Applus+ Reliable Analysis combines ASTM D2137 mandrel cold flex testing with post-chemical exposure using our chemical chambers and low-temperature equipment. Textiles are exposed to chemicals or disinfectants and then tested for brittleness at low temperatures. This integrated method serves medical fabrics that encounter disinfectants before cold storage or use. You receive practical results that reflect real-world chemical and low-temperature combined stresses.
ISO 812 Medical Coated Textile Adaptation
We perform ISO 812 low-temperature brittleness testing with adaptation for medical coated textiles using our mandrel fixtures and freezer. The method evaluates flexibility and crack resistance on hospital-grade materials. This supports manufacturers of cold-resistant protective covers and seating fabrics. You benefit from internationally accepted results tailored to healthcare applications.
VDA 230-223 Mandrel Cold Flex Assessment
Applus+ Reliable Analysis performs VDA 230-223 mandrel cold flex assessment using our low-temperature chamber and MTS fixtures for coated textiles. Materials are evaluated for cold crack resistance under European conditions. This method supports automotive and medical coated materials. You benefit from reliable results that integrate with our chemical and cold performance testing services.
Your Partner for Expert Textile Cold Flex Testing
Applus+ Reliable Analysis supports your mandrel cold flex and low-temperature flexibility testing needs with proven technical expertise and attention to detail. Our ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory uses established cold chambers and mandrel testing equipment to deliver these services efficiently and cost-effectively.
If you are developing or qualifying coated medical textiles, synthetic leather, protective covers, or other materials that require cold crack resistance, we can help. Our team will discuss your testing requirements and recommend the right approach for your project. Contact us today or request a quote to get started. We look forward to partnering with you.
Additional Applus+ Reliable Analysis’ Commercial Textile Testing Capabilities
Whether it be material EMC, environmental, fabrication, or durability testing, Applus+ Reliable Analysis has a full lab of test equipment, which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling. Our team strives to give our customers more time and energy on product development rather than testing.
Below is a list of common textile testing types that Reliable Analysis offers. Don’t see what you are looking for? Contact us, and we will determine the best course of action.
