Lab 06
Quality & Inspection Lab
Independent verification — every test passed before delivery
Trust, but verify
Every fabric batch that leaves our workshop carries certification that it has passed a defined set of quality inspections and material tests. Our Quality & Inspection Lab is an independent function within the organisation — it reports directly to the managing director, not to production — ensuring that no commercial pressure can compromise the inspection gate. If a material batch or completed fabric does not meet the published specification, the lab has the authority to halt shipment until the non-conformance is resolved.
The lab operates under a quality management system aligned with ISO 9001 principles, and our test methods are based on ISO, ASTM, and EN standards. We maintain detailed records of every test performed, creating a complete traceability chain from raw material receipt to final fabric delivery.
Test equipment and capabilities
| Equipment | Tests Performed | Standard / Method |
|---|---|---|
| Universal testing machine (50 kN) | Tensile strength (fabric), seam strength, tear propagation | ASTM D5034, ISO 13934 |
| Color spectrophotometer | Delta-E color measurement, shade matching | ISO 105-A05 / ASTM D2244 |
| Dimensional stability tester | Shrinkage after laundering and steaming | AATCC 135 / ISO 6330 |
| Hydrostatic head tester | Water penetration resistance | ISO 811 |
| Digital thickness gauge | Fabric thickness uniformity | ISO 5084 |
| Environmental chamber | Temperature conditioning (-40°C to +80°C) | ISO 188 |
| Martindale abrasion tester | Abrasion resistance and pilling | ISO 12947 / ASTM D4966 |
| Crockmeter | Color fastness to rubbing | AATCC 8 / ISO 105-X12 |
Key quality metrics (2025 rolling average)
Our quality team
The lab is staffed by a quality manager (10 years in textile QA, ASQ Certified Quality Engineer), two quality inspectors (each with Level 2 NDT certification in visual testing), and a materials technician responsible for all physical testing. The team undergoes annual proficiency testing through an independent third-party provider.
Independent testing for clients
Our Quality & Inspection Lab is available for independent testing services. If you need to verify a fabric specification, validate a new finish, or obtain a third-party test report for a procurement qualification, we can perform the tests to the applicable standard and issue a certified test report.
Examples of recent third-party testing work:
- Comparative abrasion testing of five competitive fabric finishes for a European institutional procurement programme.
- Accelerated ageing study (UV + thermal cycling) for a new pigment formulation, with interim measurements at 500 h intervals.
- Dimensional stability validation of 50 prototype fabric samples for a new uniform program.
Our commitment
When you receive Seekingtex fabric, you also receive its quality dossier — a compiled record of the test results that apply to your specific batch. Fabric batch certificate, test reports, and inspection records. Every number is traceable. Every inspector is identified.
Need independent testing or quality verification?
Our lab accepts third-party testing work — contact us with your requirements.
Contact the quality lab