ASTM D3882-08(2020)

5.1 This test method is considered satisfactory for acceptance testing of commercial shipments.

5.2 Individual rolls are normally accepted or rejected on the basis of the maximum amount of bow or skew in a specific roll of fabric. The average bow or skew in a roll or lot or the range of bow or skew in a roll may be determined but are not normally used in the trade for acceptance or rejection.

5.3 Bow or skew can be induced during fabric manufacturing, dyeing, tentering, finishing, or other operations where a potential exists for uneven distribution of tensions across the fabric width. Bow and skew are more visually displeasing in colored, patterned fabrics such as plaids and horizontal stripes rather than in solid colors because the contrast makes the distortion more prominent. These defects may cause sewing problems in such fabrics and draping problems in finished products. In some cases, a specified amount of skew is needed, for example, to prevent twisting of pant legs made of twill fabric. Matching plaids from distorted patterns may create serious problems for the garment manufacturer or home sewer. Wavy or sharp breaks in the bow line are more detrimental to the appearance of small parts of a garment (such as collars, pockets, and so forth) than a gradual slope from a straight line.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of bow and skew of filling yarns in woven fabrics and the courses in knitted fabrics.

1.2 This test method can also be used to measure the bow and skew of printed geometric designs.

1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.