CHINA (GB/T) AND IDFB FILL POWER METHODS FAQ

Q. What are the main differences between GB/T and IDFB Fill Power methods?

A. GB/T and IDFB Fill Power Methods differ in the following areas:
1. Conditioning Method

IDFB official method is Steam
GB/T official method is heating down to 50°C for 6 0 minutes or 70°C for 45 minutes depending on the type of sample.

2. Cylinder

IDFB cylinder: diameter 290 mm x height 500 mm, plate mass 94.25g

GB/T cylinder: diameter 240 mm x height 600 mm, plate mass 68.4g

3. Conditioning Time

IDFB 48 ± 24 Hours
GB/T 24 Hours

4. Test Amount

IDFB 30 g
GB/T 28.4 g or 28.5 g depending on sample type

Q. Do the differences in methodology affect the Fill Power result?

A. Yes. The two methods will yield different Fill Power results. Table 1 illustrates the difference in Fill Power results using the two methods. The IDFB method seems to be more effective at helping down achieve its full Fill Power potential. Research is on going to find the most effective fill power method.

Q. Can GB/T Fill Power results be compared to other Fill Power results using the conversion of 28.77?

A. No. The published conversion in the GB/T standard is a volumetric conversion only. It does not factor in the differences in conditioning method, cylinder type, conditioning time or testing amount. The 28.77 conversion strictly converts the result from cm to inches.

Q. How can I convert GB/T Fill Power results to IDFB Fill Power results?

A. The approximate factor difference is: GB Fill Power Results x 40. This new result approximates

IDFB Fill Power results when testing using GB/T Fill Power method. Research is on going.

For example: GB/T yields 15 cm. To convert to IDFB: 15 cm x 40 = 600. Again this is an approximation, for more accurate GB/T or IDFB results the sample should be tested using the appropriate method.

TABLE 1