Wicking Height Test Methods and Acceptable Limits
Wicking Height is verified through AATCC 197 vertical wicking. Knowing how the method works avoids rejecting fabric that actually meets the requirement.
Method overview
AATCC 197 vertical wicking defines sample size, conditioning and calculation, so values are comparable only within the same revision. Working figures for Wicking Height normally sit around above 100 mm in 30 minutes in mainstream production. Note AATCC 197 vertical wicking on the tech pack so nobody tests against an older revision.
Result interpretation
Read the value together with construction notes; above 100 mm in 30 minutes is only meaningful for similar fabrics. Record elastane content alongside Wicking Height, because blends shift the measured value. A result outside above 100 mm in 30 minutes usually points to process drift rather than to the fibre itself.
Typical limits
Buyers commonly write above 100 mm in 30 minutes with a stated tolerance, then verify against AATCC 197 vertical wicking. Keeping reference values for Wicking Height lets suppliers quote without extra sampling rounds. Ask for conditioning details together with AATCC 197 vertical wicking, since both affect the reading.
Sources of variation
Conditioning time, operator technique and shade all influence the result. Working figures for Wicking Height normally sit around above 100 mm in 30 minutes in mainstream production. Note AATCC 197 vertical wicking on the tech pack so nobody tests against an older revision.
Documentation
Record the standard revision on every report, because older versions can differ from current practice. Record elastane content alongside Wicking Height, because blends shift the measured value. A result outside above 100 mm in 30 minutes usually points to process drift rather than to the fibre itself.
