This test method is useful in quality and cost control during manufacture. Both appearance and performance of pile yarn floor coverings can be affected by the number of binding sites per length and width.

This test method is considered satisfactory for acceptance testing of commercial shipments because current estimates of between-laboratory precision are acceptable and the method is used extensively in the trade for acceptance testing.

5.2.1 If there are differences of practical significance between reported test results for two laboratories (or more), comparative tests should be performed to determine if there is statistical bias between them using competent statistical assistance. As a minimum, use test samples for such comparative tests that are as homogeneous as possible, drawn form the same lot of material as the samples that resulted in the disparate results during initial testing, and that are randomly assigned in equal numbers to each laboratory for testing. The test results from the laboratories should be compared using a statistical test for unpaired data at a probability level chosen prior to the testing series. If a bias is found either its cause must be found and corrected, or future test results for that material must be adjusted in consideration of the know bias.

1.1 This test method describes the measurement of the number of binding sites per unit length or width of machine-made, woven, knitted, and tufted pile yarn floor covering both before and after adhesive backing application.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard for all measurements. The inch-pound values provided are for information purposes only.

1.3 Determination of the number of binding sites per unit length or width of pile floor covering previously was contained within Test Methods D 418.

For user convenience, Subcommittee D13.21 has subdivided Test Method D 418 into separate standards, of which this test method is one.

This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.