Does Clothing Need UPF Evaluation?

One of the aspects that makes our company so unique is our services of accelerated ultraviolet testing. But how can we accelerate electromagnetic radiation in our lab? Simple. Our highly innovative solar simulators are able to provide a spectrum at the closest level to sunlight, simulated by a single source of light. Confusing? Well, let’s go into more detail about UPF Evaluation of clothing.

Our UV Transmission measurements expose fabrics and other materials to UV light using a solar simulator. With even a small sample of a certain fabric, at Solar Light Company, we can accurately evaluate the ultraviolet protection factor of your fabric.

Say, for example, you’d like your favorite shirt to be measured for UV transmission. We place the garment in the simulator beam and measure the amount of UV that is transmitted through it. We can also test how the material of the shirt (or pants) will effectively react to prolonged exposure to UV radiation, and if this exposure causes a change in the transmission value.

You might be scratching your head, wondering how a person can get burnt by the sun if they have clothing on. A regular white t-shirt has an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of around 7—or 3 when wet. UV rays are extremely powerful and can damage the skin even when you’re clothed. Our testing will tell you how effective your clothing fabric is at blocking the UV rays.

This process is extremely beneficial to fair-skinned individuals who see the effects of sun burn after only a couple of minutes in the sun. The long term effects of too much ultraviolet exposure can cause serious health risks. A good piece of clothing has a UPF factor above 15—and this is when you know you’re in the clear.

Knowing exactly how your clothes are protecting you when standing out in the sun on a hot summer day will positively affect your skin’s health in the long run. Not everyone will need their fabric tested, but having clothes tested by the solar simulators can adjust your wardrobe.

share post: