SDL Atlas Wascator FOM71 CLS LAB Textile Washing Tester

Overview

The SDL Atlas Wascator FOM71 CLS LAB is a microprocessor-controlled laboratory washing machine engineered specifically for standardized textile care testing in compliance with major international laundering protocols. It operates on the principle of controlled mechanical agitation within a precisely regulated thermal and chemical environment—mimicking domestic and industrial washing conditions while maintaining strict repeatability across test cycles. Designed for accredited textile testing laboratories, quality control departments, and R&D facilities, the instrument delivers high reproducibility in evaluating dimensional stability, colorfastness, pilling resistance, fabric distortion, and detergent compatibility. Its architecture adheres to the fundamental requirements of rotary drum washing simulation as defined in ISO 6330, ISO 5077, BS EN 26330, and GB/T 8629, ensuring data integrity for certification, regulatory submission, and supplier qualification.

Key Features

• Microprocessor-based control system with intuitive membrane keypad and LCD interface for real-time parameter monitoring and manual override.
• Programmable memory supporting up to 999 user-defined wash and spin cycles—including temperature ramping, fill/drain timing, rotation speed profiles, and rest intervals.
• Integrated calibration verification routines for water volume, temperature accuracy (±0.5 °C), and rotational speed (±1 rpm), traceable to NPL-recognized reference standards.
• Dual-compartment design: separate dedicated chambers for wash and rinse phases to prevent cross-contamination and ensure precise detergent dilution control.
• Modular accessory support—including weighted test fabrics (ISO 105-C06 compliant), dimensional stability templates (ISO 5077), calibrated measuring rulers (0.1 mm resolution), and certified reference detergents (e.g., ECE, IEC 456, M&S P1/P1A formulations).
• Removable stainless-steel drum (304 grade) with optimized vane geometry for uniform load distribution and consistent mechanical action across fabric types—from delicate knits to heavy-duty workwear.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Wascator FOM71 CLS LAB accommodates standard test specimens per ISO 6330 Annex A: 500 g ±5 g total load, comprising primary test fabric plus appropriate supplementary fabrics (e.g., multifiber strips, grey cotton, or specified ISO reference cloths). It supports all specimen geometries defined in ISO 5077 (flat swatches, tubular knits, seam assemblies) and accommodates non-standard loads via validated deviation protocols. The unit is fully compliant with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 requirements for method validation and equipment qualification. It meets the technical specifications mandated by global retailers including Marks & Spencer (M&S P1, P3A, P12, P91, P99, P134), Woolmark, OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, and EU REACH Annex XVII laundering clauses. Optional firmware modules enable direct execution of retailer-specific programs stored on removable SD cards—subject to licensing agreements (e.g., M&S-branded SD cards are distributed exclusively to authorized M&S suppliers under NDA).

Software & Data Management

While the FOM71 CLS LAB operates as a standalone hardware platform, its embedded firmware supports full audit trail functionality per GLP/GMP principles: every cycle execution logs timestamp, operator ID (via optional RFID badge reader), program ID, actual vs. setpoint values (temperature, time, rpm), and error codes. Data export is available via RS232 or USB interface in CSV format for integration into LIMS environments. Optional SDL Atlas LabSoft™ software provides remote programming, batch report generation (PDF/Excel), statistical process control (SPC) charting, and electronic signature capability compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when deployed with validated server infrastructure. All firmware updates undergo ISO 13485-aligned change control and include version-locked calibration certificates.

Applications

• Evaluation of dimensional change after repeated domestic laundering (ISO 5077, GB/T 8629).
• Colorfastness to washing assessment (ISO 105-C06, AATCC 61).
• Pilling resistance screening using Martindale or ICI pilling boxes post-wash conditioning.
• Validation of eco-friendly detergent formulations against performance benchmarks (IEC 456, EN 14981).
• Pre-commercial durability testing for functional textiles (moisture-wicking, flame-retardant, antimicrobial finishes).
• Supporting sustainability claims through standardized washing cycles used in Higg Index Material Sustainability Index (MSI) calculations.

FAQ

Is the Wascator FOM71 CLS LAB suitable for ISO 17892-5 geotextile testing?
No—it is designed exclusively for apparel and home textile standards; geotextile laundering requires higher torque and extended cycle durations not supported by this model.
Can third-party detergents be used without compromising compliance?
Yes, provided they meet the active ingredient concentration, pH, and chelating agent specifications outlined in ISO 6330 Annex B or retailer-specific annexes (e.g., M&S P1A). Full validation documentation must accompany non-certified detergents.
Does the unit include built-in temperature calibration verification?
Yes—integrated PT100 sensors with dual-point auto-calibration checks at 20 °C and 60 °C are performed during startup and logged in the cycle report.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for GLP-compliant operation?
Daily visual inspection of door seal and drum integrity; quarterly verification of water meter accuracy and thermal sensor drift; annual full metrological recalibration by SDL Atlas–accredited service engineers.
Is remote diagnostics supported?
Yes—optional Ethernet connectivity enables secure remote firmware troubleshooting and log retrieval via TLS-encrypted connection, subject to customer network policy approval.