Air Permeability Testing Machine
Air permeability testing is a crucial process in various industries, including textiles, paper, nonwovens, and filtration. It measures how easily air can pass through a material, which is essential for quality control, product performance, and compliance with industry standards. To conduct accurate air permeability tests, specialized equipment such as an Air Permeability Testing Machine or a Portable Air Permeability Tester is used.
In this guide, we will explore:
The importance of air permeability testing
How air permeability testers work
Step-by-step testing procedures
Industry standards and applications
Choosing the right testing equipment
1. Why Is Air Permeability Testing Important?
Air permeability refers to the ability of a material to allow air to pass through it under a specified pressure difference. This property affects:
Comfort in textiles – Fabrics with high air permeability (e.g., sportswear) allow better ventilation, while low permeability materials (e.g., windbreakers) provide insulation.
Filtration efficiency – Filters must have controlled air permeability to trap particles while maintaining airflow.
Medical and hygiene products – Nonwoven materials in masks and surgical gowns require precise air permeability for breathability and protection.
Paper and packaging – Permeability affects drying rates, printability, and barrier properties.
By using an Air Permeability Testing Machine, manufacturers ensure their products meet performance requirements and industry regulations
2. How Does an Air Permeability Tester Work?
Air permeability testers measure the volume of air passing through a material under controlled conditions. The two main types are:
A. Standard Air Permeability Testing Machine
Used in labs for high-precision measurements
Fixed systems with automated pressure control
Complies with ISO 9237, ASTM D737, and other standards
B. Portable Air Permeability Tester
Compact, handheld devices for on-site testing
Ideal for quality checks in production lines
Battery-operated for field use
Both devices operate on similar principles:
A test specimen is clamped securely.
A controlled air pressure is applied on one side.
The airflow rate through the material is measured.
Results are displayed in units like cm³/cm²/s (air permeability) or mm/s (air velocity).
3. Step-by-Step Air Permeability Testing Procedure
Step 1: Sample Preparation
Cut the material into the required size (typically 20 cm² or as per the standard).
Ensure the sample is free from wrinkles or deformations.
Step 2: Calibrate the Tester
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to calibrate the Air Permeability Testing Machine using a reference material.
Step 3: Mount the Sample
Place the specimen in the clamping area, ensuring no air leaks.
Apply uniform pressure to avoid uneven airflow.
Step 4: Set Test Parameters
Select the appropriate pressure (e.g., 100 Pa for textiles, 125 Pa for filters).
Choose the measurement unit (e.g., L/m²/s, cfm).
Step 5: Run the Test
Start the airflow and allow the machine to stabilize.
The Portable Air Permeability Tester will display real-time results.
Step 6: Record and Analyze Data
Repeat the test for multiple samples to ensure consistency.
Compare results against industry standards.
4. Industry Standards for Air Permeability Testing
Different industries follow specific test methods:
| Standard | Application | Test Method |
| ISO 9237 | Textiles – Fabric air permeability | Measures airflow at 100 Pa pressure |
| ASTM D737 | Nonwovens & textiles | Airflow under 125 Pa pressure |
| ISO 5636-5 | Paper & packaging | Bendtsen permeability test |
| EN ISO 11058 | Geotextiles | Measures water & air permeability |
Using a compliant Air Permeability Testing Machine ensures adherence to these standards.
5. Choosing the Right Air Permeability Tester
When selecting a tester, consider:
A. Fixed vs. Portable Testers
Lab-based machines (e.g., Air Permeability Testing Machine) offer high accuracy for R&D.
Portable Air Permeability Testers are best for factory floors and quick inspections.
B. Measurement Range & Accuracy
Check the pressure range (e.g., 10–500 Pa) and resolution.
Ensure the device covers your material’s permeability level.
C. Compliance with Standards
Verify if the tester meets ISO, ASTM, or other relevant norms.
D. Ease of Use & Data Management
Touchscreen interfaces and automated reports save time.
Bluetooth/USB connectivity helps in data logging.
6. Applications Across Industries
A. Textile Industry
Tests breathability in sportswear, medical textiles, and military fabrics.
B. Filtration Industry
Ensures optimal airflow in HVAC filters, face masks, and industrial filters.
C. Automotive & Aerospace
Evaluates cabin air filters and composite materials.
D. Paper & Packaging
Checks porosity for printing, drying, and barrier performance.
Conclusion
Air permeability testing is essential for product quality and performance. Whether using a high-precision Air Permeability Testing Machine or a flexible Portable Air Permeability Tester, manufacturers must follow standardized procedures to ensure accurate results.
By understanding the testing methods, industry standards, and equipment options, businesses can optimize material selection, improve product designs, and meet regulatory requirements efficiently.
For reliable air permeability measurements, always choose a tester that aligns with your industry’s needs and testing conditions.
For more information on textile testing methods/standards
or textile testing machines, contact us:
What’s App: +86 180 2511 4082
Tel: +86 769 2329 4842
Fax: +86 769 2329 4860
Email: [email protected]
