ASTM D4966-22
(Test Method)Standard Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics (Martindale Abrasion Tester Method)
Standard Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics (Martindale Abrasion Tester Method)
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Acceptance Testing—this test method is not considered satisfactory for acceptance testing of commercial shipments of fabric. The between-laboratory precision of this test method is poor and, because of the nature of abrasion testing itself, technicians frequently fail to obtain results in agreement on the same type of testing instrument, both within and between laboratories. Although this test method is not recommended for acceptance testing, it is useful because it is used widely, especially outside the United States.
5.1.1 In case of a dispute arising from differences in reported test results when using this test method for acceptance testing of commercial shipments, the purchaser and the supplier should conduct comparative tests to determine if there is a statistical bias between their laboratories. Competent statistical assistance is recommended for the investigation of bias. As a minimum, the two parties should take a group of test specimens that are as homogeneous as possible and that are from a lot of material of the type in question. The test specimens then should be assigned randomly in equal numbers to each laboratory for testing. The average results from the two laboratories should be compared using Students t-test for unpaired data and an acceptable probability level chosen by the two parties before the testing is begun. If a bias is found, either its cause must be found and corrected or the purchaser and the supplier must agree to interpret future test results in light of the known bias.
5.2 The resistance to abrasion also is affected greatly by the conditions of the tests, such as the nature of abradant; variable action of the abradant over the area of specimen abraded, the tension on the specimen, the pressure between the specimen and abradant, and the dimensional changes in the specimen.
5.3 Abrasion tests are all subject to variation due to changes in the abradant during specific tests. The abradant must be changed accordingly at freque...
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the abrasion resistance of textile fabrics using the Martindale abrasion tester. The method is generally applicable to knit, woven, and nonwoven fabrics; however, material thickness may limit suitability for testing due to specimen holder capacity.
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.3 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Note 1: For other current test methods of testing the abrasion resistance of textiles refer to Test Methods D3884, D3885, D3886, D4157, D4158, and AATCC TM93.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 31-Oct-2022
- Technical Committee
- D13 - Textiles
- Drafting Committee
- D13.60 - Fabric Physical Test Methods B
Relations
- Refers
ASTM D4158-08(2020) - Standard Guide for Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics (Uniform Abrasion) - Effective Date
- 01-Jul-2020
- Effective Date
- 15-Jul-2017
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2017
- Refers
ASTM D4158-08(2016) - Standard Guide for Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics (Uniform Abrasion) - Effective Date
- 01-Jul-2016
- Effective Date
- 15-Sep-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Jul-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Jul-2013
- Effective Date
- 01-Jul-2013
- Effective Date
- 01-Jul-2013
- Effective Date
- 01-Jul-2013
- Effective Date
- 01-Jul-2013
- Effective Date
- 15-Jun-2013
- Effective Date
- 15-Jun-2013
Overview
ASTM D4966-22 is a widely recognized standard established by ASTM International for determining the abrasion resistance of textile fabrics using the Martindale Abrasion Tester Method. Applicable to a broad range of textiles, including knit, woven, and nonwoven fabrics, this test method evaluates how well fabrics withstand surface wear over time when subjected to repeated rubbing under controlled conditions.
Though not recommended for acceptance testing of commercial shipments-due to variability between laboratories-ASTM D4966 is extensively used globally to compare the relative abrasion resistance of different textile materials. The test is especially relevant in research and development, quality assurance, and product comparison for manufacturers, suppliers, and end users within the textile industry.
Key Topics
- Abrasion Resistance Testing: The Martindale tester simulates real-life wear by rubbing fabric samples in a precise, controlled manner and evaluates their resistance to surface abrasion.
- Applicable Materials: Suitable for most textile types, including apparel fabrics, upholstery materials, household textiles, and some industrial textiles. Materials with excessive thickness or deep pile may not be suitable for the Martindale specimen holder.
- Testing Variables: Key factors affecting test results include the type and condition of the abradant, the pressure applied, sample tension, and the test environment (temperature and humidity).
- Evaluation Methods:
- Yarn Breakage: Determining the number of cycles until yarns rupture (woven) or holes appear (knit).
- Appearance Change: Assessment of color change, loss of texture, or other visible alterations using scales such as the AATCC gray scale.
- Mass Loss: Measuring and reporting the weight loss of specimens before and after abrasion cycles.
- Limitations: The method’s precision can be affected by operator technique, machine calibration, and laboratory differences. For disputes, comparative testing and statistical analysis are recommended.
Applications
ASTM D4966-22 is vital for:
- Product Development: Assessing and comparing the durability of new fabric constructions or finishes.
- Quality Assurance: Evaluating finished products to ensure they meet durability specifications for abrasion resistance.
- Comparative Analysis: Benchmarking against competitor products or validating supplier claims.
- Research: Investigating wear properties of textiles for technical and scientific studies.
- End-Use Suitability: Ensuring that textiles used in upholstery, apparel, automotive interiors, or hospitality settings withstand regular wear.
While not suitable for contractual acceptance testing due to reproducibility limitations, this standard offers valuable insights into wear performance and supports data-driven decisions for fabric engineering and selection.
Related Standards
For comprehensive textile abrasion testing, consider these ASTM and AATCC standards:
- ASTM D3884: Abrasion Resistance (Rotary Platform Abrader Method)
- ASTM D3885: Abrasion Resistance (Flexing and Abrasion Method)
- ASTM D3886: Abrasion Resistance (Inflated Diaphragm Apparatus)
- ASTM D4157: Abrasion Resistance (Oscillatory Cylinder Method)
- ASTM D4158: Guide for Uniform Abrasion
- AATCC TM93: Abrasion Resistance of Fabrics: Accelerator Method
Keywords: abrasion resistance, textile fabrics, Martindale Abrasion Tester, woven fabric, knit fabric, ASTM D4966, fabric durability, quality testing, textile standards, fabric performance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM D4966-22 is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics (Martindale Abrasion Tester Method)". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Acceptance Testing—this test method is not considered satisfactory for acceptance testing of commercial shipments of fabric. The between-laboratory precision of this test method is poor and, because of the nature of abrasion testing itself, technicians frequently fail to obtain results in agreement on the same type of testing instrument, both within and between laboratories. Although this test method is not recommended for acceptance testing, it is useful because it is used widely, especially outside the United States. 5.1.1 In case of a dispute arising from differences in reported test results when using this test method for acceptance testing of commercial shipments, the purchaser and the supplier should conduct comparative tests to determine if there is a statistical bias between their laboratories. Competent statistical assistance is recommended for the investigation of bias. As a minimum, the two parties should take a group of test specimens that are as homogeneous as possible and that are from a lot of material of the type in question. The test specimens then should be assigned randomly in equal numbers to each laboratory for testing. The average results from the two laboratories should be compared using Students t-test for unpaired data and an acceptable probability level chosen by the two parties before the testing is begun. If a bias is found, either its cause must be found and corrected or the purchaser and the supplier must agree to interpret future test results in light of the known bias. 5.2 The resistance to abrasion also is affected greatly by the conditions of the tests, such as the nature of abradant; variable action of the abradant over the area of specimen abraded, the tension on the specimen, the pressure between the specimen and abradant, and the dimensional changes in the specimen. 5.3 Abrasion tests are all subject to variation due to changes in the abradant during specific tests. The abradant must be changed accordingly at freque... SCOPE 1.1 This test method covers the determination of the abrasion resistance of textile fabrics using the Martindale abrasion tester. The method is generally applicable to knit, woven, and nonwoven fabrics; however, material thickness may limit suitability for testing due to specimen holder capacity. 1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. 1.3 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Note 1: For other current test methods of testing the abrasion resistance of textiles refer to Test Methods D3884, D3885, D3886, D4157, D4158, and AATCC TM93. 1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Acceptance Testing—this test method is not considered satisfactory for acceptance testing of commercial shipments of fabric. The between-laboratory precision of this test method is poor and, because of the nature of abrasion testing itself, technicians frequently fail to obtain results in agreement on the same type of testing instrument, both within and between laboratories. Although this test method is not recommended for acceptance testing, it is useful because it is used widely, especially outside the United States. 5.1.1 In case of a dispute arising from differences in reported test results when using this test method for acceptance testing of commercial shipments, the purchaser and the supplier should conduct comparative tests to determine if there is a statistical bias between their laboratories. Competent statistical assistance is recommended for the investigation of bias. As a minimum, the two parties should take a group of test specimens that are as homogeneous as possible and that are from a lot of material of the type in question. The test specimens then should be assigned randomly in equal numbers to each laboratory for testing. The average results from the two laboratories should be compared using Students t-test for unpaired data and an acceptable probability level chosen by the two parties before the testing is begun. If a bias is found, either its cause must be found and corrected or the purchaser and the supplier must agree to interpret future test results in light of the known bias. 5.2 The resistance to abrasion also is affected greatly by the conditions of the tests, such as the nature of abradant; variable action of the abradant over the area of specimen abraded, the tension on the specimen, the pressure between the specimen and abradant, and the dimensional changes in the specimen. 5.3 Abrasion tests are all subject to variation due to changes in the abradant during specific tests. The abradant must be changed accordingly at freque... SCOPE 1.1 This test method covers the determination of the abrasion resistance of textile fabrics using the Martindale abrasion tester. The method is generally applicable to knit, woven, and nonwoven fabrics; however, material thickness may limit suitability for testing due to specimen holder capacity. 1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. 1.3 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Note 1: For other current test methods of testing the abrasion resistance of textiles refer to Test Methods D3884, D3885, D3886, D4157, D4158, and AATCC TM93. 1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ASTM D4966-22 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 59.080.30 - Textile fabrics. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM D4966-22 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM D4158-08(2020), ASTM D4850-13(2017), ASTM D123-17, ASTM D4158-08(2016), ASTM D123-15b, ASTM D123-15a, ASTM D3885-07a(2015), ASTM D123-15, ASTM D3884-09(2013), ASTM D3884-09(2013)e1, ASTM D4850-13, ASTM D4157-13, ASTM D4850-13e1, ASTM D123-13a, ASTM D123-13ae1. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM D4966-22 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: D4966 − 22
Standard Test Method for
Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics (Martindale Abrasion
Tester Method)
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D4966; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope D3885 Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Textile
Fabrics (Flexing and Abrasion Method)
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the abra-
D3886 Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Textile
sion resistance of textile fabrics using the Martindale abrasion
Fabrics (Inflated Diaphragm Apparatus)
tester. The method is generally applicable to knit, woven, and
D4157 Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Textile
nonwoven fabrics; however, material thickness may limit
Fabrics (Oscillatory Cylinder Method)
suitability for testing due to specimen holder capacity.
D4158 Guide for Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
(Uniform Abrasion)
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
D4850 Terminology Relating to Fabrics and Fabric Test
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
Methods
and are not considered standard.
2.2 AATCC Methods and Procedures:
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the EP1 Evaluation Procedure for Gray Scale for Color Change
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
TM93 Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Fabrics:
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- Accelerator Method
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
3. Terminology
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
3.1 For all terminology relating to D13.60, Fabric Test
NOTE 1—For other current test methods of testing the abrasion
Methods, Specific, refer to Terminology D4850.
resistanceoftextilesrefertoTestMethodsD3884,D3885,D3886,D4157,
D4158, and AATCC TM93. 3.1.1 The following terms are relevant to this standard:
abrasion, abrasion cycle, Lissajous figure, movement.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
3.2 For all other terms related to textiles, refer to Terminol-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
ogy D123.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
3.3 abrasion cycle, n—in abrasion testing, one or more
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
movements of the abradant across a material surface, or
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
movement of the material across the abradant, which permits a
return to its starting position.
2. Referenced Documents
3.3.1 Discussion—The abrasion cycle is dependent on the
2.1 ASTM Standards:
programmed motions of the abrasion machine and the test
D123 Terminology Relating to Textiles standard used. It may consist of one back-and-forth unidirec-
D1776 Practice for Conditioning and Testing Textiles
tional movement such as for the flexing and abrasion test
D3884 Guide for Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics method; a circular movement such as for the rotary platform
(Rotary Platform Abrader Method)
test method, or a combination of both such as for the inflated
diaphragm test method. For the oscillatory cylinder abrasion
method, an abrasion cycle consists of one double-rub.
This test method is under the jurisdiction ofASTM Committee D13 on Textiles 3.4 Lissajous figure, n—any of an infinite variety of curves
and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D13.60 on Fabric Physical Test
formed by combining two mutually perpendicular simple
Methods B.
harmonic motions, commonly exhibited by the oscilloscope,
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2022. Published December 2022. Originally
and used in studying frequency, amplitude, and phase relations
approved in 1989. Last previous edition approved in 2016 as D4966 – 12 (2016).
DOI: 10.1520/D4966-22.
of harmonic variables.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on Available from the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists,
the ASTM website. P.O. Box 12215, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D4966 − 22
3.4.1 Discussion—as related to the Martindale Tester, geo- same type of testing instrument, both within and between
metric figure comprised of 16 arcs that start as a straight line, laboratories.Although this test method is not recommended for
then become a widening ellipse and narrow to again become a acceptance testing, it is useful because it is used widely,
straight line. especially outside the United States.
5.1.1 In case of a dispute arising from differences in
reported test results when using this test method for acceptance
testing of commercial shipments, the purchaser and the sup-
plier should conduct comparative tests to determine if there is
a statistical bias between their laboratories. Competent statis-
tical assistance is recommended for the investigation of bias.
As a minimum, the two parties should take a group of test
specimens that are as homogeneous as possible and that are
from a lot of material of the type in question. The test
specimens then should be assigned randomly in equal numbers
to each laboratory for testing.The average results from the two
laboratories should be compared using Students t-test for
unpaired data and an acceptable probability level chosen by the
two parties before the testing is begun. If a bias is found, either
its cause must be found and corrected or the purchaser and the
supplier must agree to interpret future test results in light of the
3.5 movement, n—as related to the Martindale Tester, one
known bias.
rotation of the outer gearing of the Martindale tester, creating
one of the 16 arcs that form a Lissajous figure.
5.2 The resistance to abrasion also is affected greatly by the
conditions of the tests, such as the nature of abradant; variable
4. Summary of Test Method
action of the abradant over the area of specimen abraded, the
4.1 Abrasion resistance is measured by subjecting the speci-
tension on the specimen, the pressure between the specimen
men to rubbing motion in the form of a geometric figure, that
and abradant, and the dimensional changes in the specimen.
is, a straight line, which becomes a gradually widening ellipse,
5.3 Abrasion tests are all subject to variation due to changes
until it forms another straight line in the opposite direction and
in the abradant during specific tests. The abradant must be
traces the same figure again under known conditions of
changed accordingly at frequent intervals or checked periodi-
pressure and abrasive action. Resistance to abrasion is evalu-
cally against a standard. With disposable abradants, the abrad-
ated by various means which are described in Section 11.
ant is used only once or changed after limited use. With
permanent abradants that use hardened metal or equivalent
5. Significance and Use
surfaces, it is assumed that the abradant will not change
5.1 Acceptance Testing—this test method is not considered
appreciably in a specific series of tests, but obviously similar
satisfactory for acceptance testing of commercial shipments of
abradantsusedindifferentlaboratorieswillnotlikelychangeat
fabric. The between-laboratory precision of this test method is
the same rate due to differences in usage. Permanent abradants
poor and, because of the nature of abrasion testing itself,
also may change due to pick up of finishing or other material
technicians frequently fail to obtain results in agreement on the
from test fabrics and must accordingly be cleaned at frequent
intervals. The measurement of the relative amount of abrasion
also may be affected by the method of evaluation and may be
influenced by the judgment of the operator.
5.4 The resistance of textile materials to abrasion as mea-
sured on a testing machine in the laboratory is generally only
one of several factors contributing to wear performance or
durability as experienced in the actual use of the material.
While “abrasion resistance” (often stated in terms of the
number of cycles on a specified machine, using a specified
technique to produce a specified degree or amount of abrasion)
and “durability” (defined as the ability to withstand deteriora-
tion or wearing out in use, including the effects of abrasion)
frequently are related, the relationship varies with different end
uses, and different factors may be necessary in any calculation
of predicted durability from specific abrasion data.
5.4.1 Laboratory tests may be reliable as an indication of
relative end-use performance in cases where the difference in
abrasion resistance of various materials is large, but they
FIG. 1 Martindale Tester should not be relied upon where differences in laboratory test
D4966 − 22
NOTE 2—An adequate specification or other agreement between the
findings are small. In general, they should not be relied upon
purchaser and the supplier requires taking into account the variability
for prediction of actual wear-life in specific-end uses unless
between rolls
...
This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: D4966 − 12 (Reapproved 2016) D4966 − 22
Standard Test Method for
Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics (Martindale Abrasion
Tester Method)
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D4966; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the abrasion resistance of textile fabrics using the Martindale abrasion tester.
Fabrics of all types may be tested by this method but difficulties may arise with fabrics with a pile depth greater than 0.08 in. (2
mm).The method is generally applicable to knit, woven, and nonwoven fabrics; however, material thickness may limit suitability
for testing due to specimen holder capacity.
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.3 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 safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
NOTE 1—For other current test methods of testing the abrasion resistance of textiles refer to Test Methods D3884, D3885, D3886, D4157, D4158, and
AATCC Test Method 93.TM93.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D123 Terminology Relating to Textiles
D1776 Practice for Conditioning and Testing Textiles
D3884 Guide for Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics (Rotary Platform Abrader Method)
D3885 Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics (Flexing and Abrasion Method)
D3886 Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics (Inflated Diaphragm Apparatus)
D4157 Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics (Oscillatory Cylinder Method)
D4158 Guide for Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics (Uniform Abrasion)
D4850 Terminology Relating to Fabrics and Fabric Test Methods
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D13 on Textiles and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D13.60 on Fabric Physical Test Methods,
SpecificMethods B.
Current edition approved July 1, 2016Nov. 1, 2022. Published August 2016December 2022. Originally approved in 1989. Last previous edition approved in 20122016
ɛ1
as D4966 – 12 (2016). . DOI: 10.1520/D4966-12R16.10.1520/D4966-22.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D4966 − 22
2.2 AATCC Methods and Procedures:
Evaluation Procedure 1EP1 Evaluation Procedure for Gray Scale for Color Change
Test Method 93TM93 Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Fabrics: Accelerator Method
3. Terminology
3.1 For all terminology relating to D13.60, Fabric Test Methods, Specific, refer to Terminology D4850.
3.1.1 The following terms are relevant to this standard: abrasion,abrasion cycle,Lissajous figure,rub, movement.standard
atmosphere for preconditioning textiles, standard atmosphere for testing, in textiles.
3.2 For all other terms related to textiles, refer to Terminology D123.
3.3 abrasion cycle, n—in abrasion testing, one or more movements of the abradant across a material surface, or movement of the
material across the abradant, which permits a return to its starting position.
3.3.1 Discussion—
The abrasion cycle is dependent on the programmed motions of the abrasion machine and the test standard used. It may consist
of one back-and-forth unidirectional movement such as for the flexing and abrasion test method; a circular movement such as for
the rotary platform test method, or a combination of both such as for the inflated diaphragm test method. For the oscillatory
cylinder abrasion method, an abrasion cycle consists of one double-rub.
3.4 Lissajous figure, n—any of an infinite variety of curves formed by combining two mutually perpendicular simple harmonic
motions, commonly exhibited by the oscilloscope, and used in studying frequency, amplitude, and phase relations of harmonic
variables.
3.4.1 Discussion—
as related to the Martindale Tester, geometric figure comprised of 16 arcs that start as a straight line, then become a widening
ellipse and narrow to again become a straight line.
3.5 movement, n—as related to the Martindale Tester, one rotation of the outer gearing of the Martindale tester, creating one of
the 16 arcs that form a Lissajous figure.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 Abrasion resistance is measured by subjecting the specimen to rubbing motion in the form of a geometric figure, that is, a
straight line, which becomes a gradually widening ellipse, until it forms another straight line in the opposite direction and traces
the same figure again under known conditions of pressure and abrasive action. Resistance to abrasion is evaluated by various means
which are described in Section 11.
Available from the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists, P.O. Box 12215, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709.
D4966 − 22
FIG. 1 Martindale Abrasion Tester
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Acceptance Testing—this test method is not considered satisfactory for acceptance testing of commercial shipments of fabric.
The between-laboratory precision of this test method is poor and, because of the nature of abrasion testing itself, technicians
frequently fail to obtain results in agreement on the same type of testing instrument, both within and between laboratories.
Although this test method is not recommended for acceptance testing, it is useful because it is used widely, especially outside the
United States.
5.1.1 In case of a dispute arising from differences in reported test results when using this test method for acceptance testing of
commercial shipments, the purchaser and the supplier should conduct comparative tests to determine if there is a statistical bias
between their laboratories. Competent statistical assistance is recommended for the investigation of bias. As a minimum, the two
parties should take a group of test specimens that are as homogeneous as possible and that are from a lot of material of the type
in question. The test specimens then should be assigned randomly in equal numbers to each laboratory for testing. The average
results from the two laboratories should be compared using Students t-test for unpaired data and an acceptable probability level
chosen by the two parties before the testing is begun. If a bias is found, either its cause must be found and corrected or the purchaser
and the supplier must agree to interpret future test results in light of the known bias.
5.2 The resistance to abrasion also is affected greatly by the conditions of the tests, such as the nature of abradant; variable action
of the abradant over the area of specimen abraded, the tension on the specimen, the pressure between the specimen and abradant,
and the dimensional changes in the specimen.
5.3 Abrasion tests are all subject to variation due to changes in the abradant during specific tests. The abradant must be changed
accordingly at frequent intervals or checked periodically against a standard. With disposable abradants, the abradant is used only
once or changed after limited use. With permanent abradants that use hardened metal or equivalent surfaces, it is assumed that the
abradant will not change appreciably in a specific series of tests, but obviously similar abradants used in different laboratories will
not likely change at the same rate due to differences in usage. Permanent abradants also may change due to pick up of finishing
or other material from test fabrics and must accordingly be cleaned at frequent intervals. The measurement of the relative amount
of abrasion also may be affected by the method of evaluation and may be influenced by the judgment of the operator.
5.4 The resistance of textile materials to abrasion as measured on a testing machine in the laboratory is generally only one of
several factors contributing to wear performance or durability as experienced in the actual use of the material. While “abrasion
resistance” (often stated in terms of the number of cycles on a specified machine, using a specified technique to produce a specified
degree or amount of abrasion) and “durability” (defined as the ability to withstand deterioration or wearing out in use, including
the effects of abrasion) frequently are related, the relationship varies with different end uses, and different factors may be necessary
in any calculation of predicted durability from specific abrasion data.
5.4.1 Laboratory tests may be reliable as an indication of relative end-use performance in cases where the difference in abrasion
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resistance of various materials is large, but they should not be relied upon where differences in laboratory test findings are small.
In general, they should not be relied upon for prediction of actual wear-life in specific-end uses unless there are data showing the
specific relationship between laboratory abrasion tests and actual wear in the intended end-use.
5.5 These general observations apply to all types of fabrics, including woven, nonwoven, and knit apparel fabrics, household
fabrics, industrial fabrics, and floor coverings. It is not surprising, therefore, to find that there are many different types of abrasion
testing machines, abradants, testing conditions, testing procedures, methods of evaluation of abrasion resistance, and interpretation
of results.
5.6 All the test methods and instruments so far developed for abrasion resistance may show a high degree of variability in results
obtained by different operators and in different laboratories; however, they represent the methods now most widely in use.
5.7 Since there is a definite need for measuring the relative resistance to abrasion, standardized test methods are desirable and
useful and may clarify the problem and lessen the confusion.
6. Apparatus and Materials
6.1 Martindale Tester, (Fig. 1) using a Lissa
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