Different Levels of Fabric Pilling

According to the national standard CB/T4802.1-1997, the quality inspection of fabric fuzzing and pilling is generally carried out by using nylon brushes and abrasives to rub the fabric to cause fuzzing and pilling. Then, under specified conditions, the sample is compared with the standard sample, and the grade of fabric fuzzing and pilling is evaluated.

Classified by 5-level:

Level 5: No change. Under the specified pressure and friction test conditions, the fabric has only slight fuzziness, but no obvious pilling.

Level 4: The surface is slightly fuzzy and/or slightly pilling.

Level 3: Moderate fuzzing and/or pilling on the surface. The size and density of the pills cover part of the surface of the specimen.

Level 2: The surface is obviously fuzzy and/or pilling, and the size and density of the pills cover most of the surface of the specimen.

Level 1: The surface is severely fuzzed and/or pilled, and the size and density of the pills cover the entire surface of the specimen.

Generally, a standard value of ≥3-4 for pilling can be considered first-class products, but this does not mean that the fabric will not pill or fuzz. It just means that the higher the grade, the less likely the fabric will pill.

Anti-pilling test method:

There are currently three methods and no unified testing standards. The specific test method used is mainly based on customer requirements, fabric usage, fabric performance, and export country. For example, wool fabrics mostly use the circular track method, and knitted fabrics mostly use the rotary method. The Martindale method is currently the most commonly used.

Anti-pilling requirements for cotton cloth: superior products are above grade 4, first-class products are above grade 3.5, and qualified products are above grade 3.

Anti-pilling requirements for wool coats: combed superior products are above grade 4, first-class products and qualified products are above grade 3.5; woolen or worsted (suede) superior products are above grade 3.5, first-class products and qualified products are above grade 3.