SDL Atlas M238G Six-Station Color Fastness and Crocking Tester

Overview

The SDL Atlas M238G is a precision-engineered, six-station benchtop color fastness and crocking tester designed in strict accordance with international textile testing standards—including ISO 105-X12, AATCC Test Method 8 (Crocking), and GB/T 3920. It operates on the principle of controlled linear reciprocating motion between a standardized abrasive surface (crocking cloth or finger) and a fabric specimen under defined load and stroke parameters. The instrument quantifies color transfer—both dry and wet—by measuring the degree of staining on adjacent white cotton or multifiber test cloths after a predetermined number of cycles. Its modular architecture supports reproducible, operator-independent evaluation essential for QC laboratories operating under ISO/IEC 17025-accredited environments.

Key Features

• Six independent test stations enabling parallel evaluation of multiple specimens or comparative testing across varying parameters (e.g., dry vs. wet, different loads, or substrate types).
• Motor-driven, programmable reciprocating arm system with adjustable stroke length (typically 104 mm per cycle, compliant with AATCC 8 and ISO 105-X12) and variable speed control (typically 60 cycles/min standard, configurable per method requirements).
• Interchangeable weighted test heads: two complete sets supplied—6 × 200 g and 6 × 500 g—plus supplementary weights (100 g, 300 g, 400 g, and 800 g per station) to meet diverse standard-specific load requirements.
• Self-balancing test arms eliminate mechanical bias from arm mass, ensuring consistent normal force application across all stations without manual recalibration.
• Integrated digital cycle counter with automatic termination upon reaching the preset count; audible and visual end-of-test indication improves workflow traceability.
• Robust aluminum alloy frame and corrosion-resistant stainless steel fixtures ensure long-term dimensional stability and resistance to solvent exposure during wet crocking procedures.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The M238G accommodates flat textile specimens up to 50 mm × 140 mm (standard AATCC/ISO dimensions), secured via precision-machined clamping fixtures that prevent lateral slippage during abrasion. Both dry and wet crocking tests are supported using standardized crocking cloths (e.g., AATCC Gray Scale for Staining, ISO 105-A02) and optional humidity-controlled wetting jigs. The system complies with regulatory frameworks governing textile quality assurance, including ASTM D5034 (tensile strength), ISO 105-F09 (multifiber fabric specifications), and EU REACH Annex XVII restrictions on azo dyes. Its design facilitates audit readiness for GLP and GMP-aligned textile testing labs, with documented traceability of calibration records, maintenance logs, and operator training.

Software & Data Management

While the M238G operates as a standalone mechanical tester with analog/digital controls (no embedded microprocessor), it is fully compatible with external laboratory data management systems. Cycle counts, test duration, applied load, and environmental conditions (temperature/humidity logged separately per ASTM E145 or ISO 139) can be recorded manually or integrated into LIMS via standardized CSV export protocols. For labs requiring electronic records compliance (e.g., FDA 21 CFR Part 11), SDL Atlas recommends pairing the M238G with validated third-party acquisition software that provides audit trails, user authentication, and electronic signature capability—ensuring full alignment with regulated textile testing workflows.

Applications

• Quality control of dyed, printed, and coated textiles in apparel, home furnishings, and technical fabrics.
• Pre-shipment verification against buyer specifications (e.g., Walmart, H&M, Zara compliance programs).
• R&D evaluation of new dye chemistries, pigment dispersions, and finishing agents for migration resistance.
• Validation of washing and dry-cleaning durability per ISO 105-C06 and AATCC 135 protocols when used in conjunction with standardized laundering units.
• Supplier qualification and tier-2 vendor auditing where objective, repeatable crocking metrics are contractually mandated.

FAQ

What standards does the M238G support out of the box?
It is mechanically configured to execute ISO 105-X12, AATCC TM8, and GB/T 3920 without hardware modification; additional standards may require minor fixture adaptation.
Can the M238G perform wet crocking without external humidification equipment?
Yes—standard operation includes manual pre-wetting of crocking cloths per AATCC 8 Section 6.2; optional humidity-controlled wetting trays are available as accessories.
Is calibration required before each test series?
No routine recalibration is needed; however, annual verification of stroke length, cycle timing, and applied load accuracy using NIST-traceable weights and calipers is recommended per ISO/IEC 17025 Clause 6.5.
Are replacement crocking fingers and test cloths supplied by SDL Atlas?
Yes—original SDL Atlas-certified crocking fingers (part #M238-FNGR), multifiber test fabrics (MFTF), and gray scales are available through authorized distribution channels with full lot traceability.
Does the M238G include documentation for ISO 17025 accreditation?
SDL Atlas provides a comprehensive User Manual, Factory Calibration Certificate, and Design Verification Report—sufficient for inclusion in a lab’s scope of accreditation submission package.