ICI Pilling Tester

Definition and overview

The ICI Pilling Tester is a testing machine used to evaluate pilling, the tendency for fuzz balls to form on a fabric surface. A test specimen is mounted on a specified support and moved repeatedly inside a box to apply friction and rubbing action. After testing, the state of pilling on the surface is compared with reference samples for evaluation.

ICI method and ICI-type method refer to pilling test methods that use this testing machine. It may also be called a pilling box, but this can refer either to the box-shaped test section of the machine or to the machine as a whole, so its meaning should be confirmed in specifications.

Characteristics that can be evaluated

The test checks how raised fibers with fiber ends exposed on the surface, the formation of pilling caused by entangled fuzz, and the resistance of pills to shedding appear in the finish. The evaluation results serve as comparison data for predicting changes in appearance during everyday use.

However, results obtained with the ICI Pilling Tester do not reproduce all wearing conditions of clothing. Because actual pilling varies depending on the friction partner, area of wear, washing method, and material combination, comprehensive judgment based on the intended application is important.

Main applications

It is used for development, incoming inspection, and quality verification of fabrics in which changes in appearance caused by fuzz or pilling are likely to affect product value, such as knits, brushed materials, and woven fabrics made with spun yarn. It may be considered for sweaters, cut-and-sewn items, jerseys, pants, uniforms, and more.

Not limited to autumn and winter items, pilling checks are also important for year-round apparel made with synthetic fibers or blended materials. Assumed contact areas such as underarms, sides, inner thighs, and under the sleeves, where repeated contact with skin, bags, or chairs occurs, are considered, and required standards and test conditions are determined at the planning stage.

Handling and precautions for test results

When comparing results, the sampling direction of the test specimen, before and after washing, number of test cycles, evaluation method, and lighting conditions must be kept the same. Because the appearance also differs depending on the fabric face and back, pattern, and brushed direction, the test surface must be clearly identified and recorded.

Shrinkage and washing can change the fabric structure density, the appearance of fuzz, and the surface texture, which also affects pilling evaluation. Products that undergo garment washing, brushing, or softening should be checked in a processing state as close as possible to the final product, and evaluated after washing as needed.

If excessive feed or presser pressure is applied during sewing, the surface around the seam may become irregular. The results of the ICI-type test evaluate the fabric itself and do not directly evaluate rubbing or fading caused by sewing specifications, so confirmation with product samples is also necessary.

Differences from similar terms

Pilling is the phenomenon itself in which pills form on the fabric surface. In contrast, the ICI Pilling Tester is the apparatus and test method used to evaluate how easily it occurs. Anti-pilling refers to properties or processing designed to make pills less likely to form.

The Martindale method is also one of the test methods used to evaluate pilling, but the way the test specimen is subjected to action differs from the ICI method. Because results cannot be simply compared side by side for the same fabric if the methods or conditions differ, test reports list the test methods together.

Frequently asked questions