EN 12747:1999

Overview

EN 12747:1999 is a European standard developed by CEN that specifies a test method for determining the abrasion resistance of footwear insoles. This standard applies to insoles regardless of their material composition, offering a consistent and reliable procedure to evaluate how well insoles withstand wear caused by friction and use. By providing a standardized abrasion resistance test, EN 12747:1999 supports manufacturers, quality control personnel, and product developers in ensuring the durability and performance of insoles in footwear.

Key Topics

• Abrasion Resistance Testing
  The standard outlines a specific method to test the wear resistance of insole materials to simulate real-world conditions and determine their longevity.

• Material Independence
  EN 12747:1999 is applicable to all types of insole materials, including leather, synthetic, foam, and composite structures, ensuring broad usability across the footwear industry.

• Testing Procedure
  The detailed test method includes sample preparation, equipment calibration, test execution, and result interpretation to guarantee reproducibility and accuracy.

• Performance Evaluation
  Results from abrasion tests help in assessing the quality of insoles, assisting manufacturers in product development and compliance with quality benchmarks.

Applications

• Footwear Manufacturers
  Use EN 12747:1999 to perform abrasion resistance tests during insole design and production phases to enhance product durability.

• Quality Control Laboratories
  Implement the standard as part of ongoing quality assurance to verify insole performance before market release.

• Material Suppliers
  Evaluate and compare abrasion resistance of different insole materials to recommend optimum choices for footwear production.

• Research and Development
  Support innovative material testing and development of new insole technologies focused on improved wear resistance.

• Consumer Safety and Satisfaction
  Ensure that footwear insoles meet minimum durability standards, contributing to overall user comfort and extended product life.

Related Standards

• EN ISO 20344 - Test methods for footwear, including mechanical and physical properties, which can complement abrasion testing for comprehensive product evaluation.

• EN ISO 20345 - Safety footwear standards that may incorporate abrasion resistance requirements as part of overall footwear performance criteria.

• ISO 4649 - Rubber, vulcanized or thermoplastic - Determination of abrasion resistance, useful when insoles include rubber components.

• ASTM D3884 - Standard guide for abrasion resistance testing of textiles, which can offer alternative methodologies for certain insole materials.

By adopting EN 12747:1999, stakeholders in the footwear industry can consistently measure and improve the abrasion resistance of insoles, thereby enhancing product reliability, comfort, and user satisfaction. This standard plays a vital role in maintaining quality and fostering innovation in the manufacturing of durable footwear components.