ISO 13934-2:2014 is an ISO test method for determining the maximum force (peak tensile load) of textile fabrics using the grab method on a constant-rate-of-extension (CRE) tensile testing machine.
It is widely used for quality control and product qualification of woven fabrics (including certain stretch woven constructions) when a grab-style tensile result is required. If you need help matching your fabric type, conditioning state (dry vs. wet), or reported direction (warp/fill) to the correct setup, you can talk with our team.
ISO 13934-2:2014 — Textiles — Tensile properties of fabrics — Part 2: Determination of maximum force using the grab method
This standard defines a laboratory procedure for measuring the maximum force of a fabric specimen using the grab test configuration. The result is commonly used to compare fabric tensile performance in a repeatable way for purchasing specifications and internal release criteria.
The method includes testing of specimens conditioned in the specified standard atmosphere for textile testing, and it also includes provisions for testing specimens in the wet state.
Quick definition
ISO 13934-2 (grab method): A CRE tensile test procedure for fabrics that reports the maximum force reached during a grab-style tensile pull of a defined specimen area.
What this standard covers
ISO 13934-2 specifies how to determine maximum force for textile fabrics using the grab test. It is mainly applicable to woven textile fabrics, including woven fabrics that show stretch characteristics due to elastomeric fibre content and/or mechanical or chemical treatment.
It can be applicable to fabrics made by other techniques, but it is not normally applicable to several technical textile categories (for example, geotextiles and many nonwoven or coated constructions). When a fabric type falls into an excluded or borderline category, labs typically evaluate whether another tensile or product-specific method is more appropriate.
Key outputs: Maximum force (peak load) at rupture or at the point of maximum load (as defined by the method and reporting rules in the cited edition).
Test states: Conditioned (standard atmosphere) specimens and wet-state specimens.
Machine requirement: The method is restricted to constant-rate-of-extension (CRE) testing machines.
Why this standard matters in testing
Grab-method tensile results are frequently referenced in fabric procurement and manufacturing control because they provide a practical, production-friendly indicator of fabric tensile performance without requiring a full-width strip specimen. For many woven fabrics, this supports faster comparison across lots, finishes, and suppliers.
From an equipment and lab-management standpoint, ISO 13934-2 is sensitive to grip configuration and alignment because the grab method intentionally loads only a portion of the specimen width. Consistent gripping hardware and repeatable specimen placement are essential for meaningful trend data.
Common materials, product types, or applications covered
This standard is commonly applied to woven fabrics used in apparel, uniform/workwear, home textiles, and industrial woven goods where a grab tensile maximum force value is specified.
It is also used for woven stretch fabrics where stretch behavior is introduced through elastomeric fibre content and/or finishing treatments, provided the construction remains within the scope described in the standard.
Common test or verification workflow
ISO 13934-2 typically supports incoming inspection, in-process QC, and final release testing for fabric lots.
Common workflow: Condition specimens in the specified standard atmosphere (when testing dry), prepare and identify test pieces by direction, mount the specimen in grab-type grips, run a CRE tensile pull to failure, and record the maximum force; repeat for the required number of specimens and directions. When wet testing is required, specimens are prepared and tested in the wet state per the standard’s procedure.
Equipment commonly used for this standard
ISO 13934-2 requires a constant-rate-of-extension tensile testing machine and appropriate grab-method gripping hardware. The exact grip faces, clamping approach, and setup details should match the cited edition and the fabric type being tested.
Common equipment: CRE universal testing machine (UTM) with a suitable load cell range, grab test grips/clamps designed for fabric tensile testing, and software for capturing peak force. For wet-state testing, labs typically use an approved wetting approach and handling tools consistent with the method’s wet-test requirements.
If you are selecting a CRE frame capacity, grip style (manual vs. pneumatic), or data-acquisition package for ISO 13934-2 testing, you can request a detailed quote for an equipment configuration matched to your expected force range and throughput.
How to read this designation or revision
ISO 13934-2 identifies Part 2 of the ISO 13934 series for tensile properties of fabrics.
ISO 13934-2:2014 indicates the published edition year (2014). Many customer specifications cite an exact edition year; when you are comparing historical data or meeting a purchase requirement, confirm the exact edition referenced in the contract or test plan.
Withdrawn editions: Earlier editions may be withdrawn and replaced by newer editions; when legacy requirements appear on drawings or supplier manuals, edition matching can affect accepted practice and reporting.
Related standards, methods, or frameworks
ISO 13934-2 is part of the ISO 13934 series. For applications that require a strip method result (and typically include elongation at maximum force), ISO 13934-1 is commonly referenced instead of the grab method.
In sewn-product testing, related ISO methods exist for seam tensile properties using comparable strip and grab testing concepts; confirm the correct seam-focused designation when the requirement is for seam rupture performance rather than base fabric strength.
Get help selecting a CRE tensile setup for ISO 13934-2
For a lab-ready ISO 13934-2 configuration—CRE frame, load cell capacity, grab grips, and reporting workflow—use our quote process to align the system to your fabric range and required conditioning states: request pricing.