ICI Tumble Box Pilling Tester

The ICI Tumble Box Pilling Tester is designed to evaluate fabric pilling and snagging behavior caused by normal wear conditions. Test specimens are placed inside rotating test boxes lined with cork, where they undergo controlled tumbling and friction.

The instrument is equipped with a programmable controller, allowing selection of standard and customized rotational speeds. A built-in reverse rotation system at 30 rpm ensures uniform wear distribution during testing.

Application

The ICI Tumble Box Pilling Tester is suitable for evaluating the pilling and snagging resistance of the following products:

(1) Woven apparel fabrics such as shirts, trousers, uniforms, and outerwear

(2) Knitted fabrics including sweaters, sportswear, underwear, and casual garments

(3) Wool, cotton, synthetic fiber, and blended textiles

(4) Fabrics subject to normal wear and surface abrasion during daily use

(5) Textile materials requiring compliance with BS, ISO, GB, and retailer-specific standards

Standards

(1) BS 5811 – Method for Determination of Resistance to Pilling of Woven Fabrics (ICI Tumble Box Method)

(2) BS 8479 – Method for Assessment of Pilling Resistance of Textile Fabrics Using the ICI Tumble Box

(3) IWSTM 152 – Determination of Fabric Pilling Resistance Using the ICI Tumble Box Method

(4) NEXT 19 – Method for Testing Pilling Resistance of Apparel Fabrics (NEXT Retail Standard)

(5) M&S P18 / P18A / P18B / P21A – Methods for Determination of Fabric Pilling and Surface Appearance (Marks & Spencer Performance Standards)

(6) GB/T 4802.3 – Textiles — Determination of Fabric Propensity to Surface Fuzzing and to Pilling — Part 3: Pilling Box Method

(7) BS EN ISO 12945-1 – Textiles — Determination of Fabric Propensity to Surface Fuzzing and to Pilling — Part 1: Pilling Box Method

Features

(1) Configurable with up to four independent tumble boxes

(2) Forward and reverse rotation function for uniform specimen wear

(3) Wide selectable speed range to meet multiple test standards

(4) LCD display showing all test parameters in real time

(5) Audible alarm at the end of the test

(6) High sealing performance of test boxes

(7) Motor protection system with automatic stop and alarm in case of obstruction

Technical Parameters

Accessories

(1) Main unit: 1 set

(2) Pilling test boxes: 4 pcs

(3) Snagging test boxes: 2 pcs

(4) Quick specimen mounting frame: 1 set

(5) Cork linings: 4 sets (6 sheets per set)

(6) Snagging pins: 4 packs (6 pins per pack)

(7) Specimen mounting tubes: 30 pcs

(8) Standard rating photographs: 1 set

FAQ

(1) What is this product?

The ICI Tumble Box Pilling Tester is a laboratory instrument used to assess fabric pilling and snagging resistance under simulated normal wear conditions.

(2) What is this product used for?

It is used to evaluate surface fuzzing, pilling, and snagging caused by tumbling and friction inside cork-lined rotating boxes.

(3) Why is this product important?

Pilling and snagging directly affect fabric appearance and durability. This tester provides standardized and repeatable results required by international and retailer standards.

(4) What problems does this product solve for users?

It helps manufacturers verify fabric performance, compare materials, and ensure compliance with quality specifications before production or shipment.

(5) What types of tests can be performed?

Both pilling and snagging tests can be conducted using dedicated test boxes and accessories.

(6) How is the tester operated?

Specimens are mounted on tubes, placed into the test boxes, tested at selected rotational speeds for a preset duration, and then visually rated using standard photographs.