Cut resistance testing
Behind a cut-protection marking can stand two fundamentally different measurements: the rotating-blade coupe index and the straight-blade TDM letter. For modern high-cut materials it matters which method is used — and the standard says precisely when each one governs.
Two methods, two scales
Coupe test (EN 388): a rotating circular blade travels back and forth over the specimen under constant load until cut-through. The result is an index relative to a control fabric, from which the 1–5 performance level — the second digit of the glove marking — is derived.
TDM test (EN ISO 13997): a single stroke of a straight blade under controlled force; repeated across specimens and force levels, it yields the force in newtons that cuts through the material. The result is the A–F letter (A: ≥2 N … F: ≥30 N) after the marking's digit string.
Which result governs?
The two scales do not convert into each other. On blade-blunting materials — HPPE, glass- and steel-fibre reinforcement — the coupe's rotating blade dulls mid-test, so under EN 388 the TDM result governs and the coupe position often shows an X. On traditional materials (leather, cotton, plain knitted gloves) the coupe number remains sufficient. Our knowledge article on the TDM test covers the details.
TDM testing in-house — on a MESDAN machine
- We measure on a commercial TDM machine of the type referenced as an example in the standard (MESDAN, Italy) — against self-built rigs, this is the basis of result comparability;
- the measurement runs quickly and routinely here — for development iterations and lot verification alike;
- results are recorded in a test report issued as the laboratory of a notified body (NB 1524).
The coupe test — the classic method
We also perform the rotating-blade coupe test — on its own or as part of the full EN 388 mechanical package alongside abrasion, tear and puncture resistance. On traditional materials it supplies the second digit of the marking, and it remains the proven tool for comparative measurements and supplier evaluation.
For whom, and when?
- Manufacturers in development: does the construction reach the target letter, and what does a material change do.
- Importers and brands: independent verification of a declared cut level, lot-identity checks.
- Not only gloves: cut-protection arm guards, finger guards and cut-resistant material samples can be tested too.
Testing or certification?
Laboratory testing gives an objective picture of product performance — for development, verification, disputes. If the goal is the EU type-examination required for CE marking, that is a separate Notified Body procedure: see our protective glove certification page.
Related standards
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