ASTM F510/F510M-20

Standard Test Method for Resistance to Abrasion of Resilient Floor Coverings Using an Abrader with a Grit Feed Method

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 When subjected to normal in-use traffic conditions, a flooring material is exposed to abrasion caused by the destructive action of fine hard particles. This situation occurs whenever loose debris, dirt and other particulate matter exists between traffic bodies (that is, shoes and a flooring surface). Under continuing exposure to an “abrasive action,” a flooring material may suffer a thickness loss sufficient to reduce its service life.  
4.2 Abrasion resistance measurements of resilient floor coverings can be complicated since the resistance to abrasion is affected by many factors. These may include the physical properties of the material in the floor covering surface, particularly its hardness and resilience; type and degree of added substances, such as fillers and pigments; surface characteristics of the specimen, such as type, depth, and amount of embossing. It can also be affected by conditions of the test, including the type and characteristics of the abradant and how it acts on the area of the specimen being abraded; pressure between the specimen and leather clad brass wheels; and vacuum suction.  
4.3 This test method is designed to simulate one kind of abrasive action and abradant that a flooring may encounter in the field. However, results should not be used as an absolute index of ultimate life because, as noted, there are too many factors and interactions to consider. Also involved are the many different types of service locations. Therefore, the data from this test method are of value chiefly in the development of materials and should not be used without qualifications as a basis for commercial comparisons.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method2 describes a laboratory procedure for determining the abrasion resistance of resilient flooring using an abrader with a grit feeder.3  
1.2 The equipment used in this test method is a modification of the Taber abraser. The regular abrading wheels are replaced by leather clad brass wheels (rollers). As the specimen holder rotates, a grit-feeding device dispenses aluminum oxide grit onto the specimen before the grit passes under the leather clad brass wheels. As the specimen rotates, the rub-wear action of the wheels and abrasive grit causes abrasion on the test piece. Using the vacuum system incorporated in the apparatus, the used grit and abraded material are removed after passing under both wheels.  
1.3 This test method employs a rotary, rubbing action caused by loose abrasive grit and the two abrading wheels. One wheel rubs the specimen from the center outward and the other from the outside toward the center. The wheels traverse a complete circle and have an abrasive action on the rotating specimen at all angles. This action approaches the twisting action between shoe and floor that occurs when a person turns. The use of loose grit serves the function of an abradant and also aids in the rolling action characteristic of normal walking.  
1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.  
1.5 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.  
1.6 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: 30-Apr-2020
• ICS: 97.150 - Floor coverings
• Technical Committee: F06 - Resilient Floor Coverings
• Drafting Committee: F06.20 - Test Methods

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM F510/F510M-14 - Standard Test Method for Resistance to Abrasion of Resilient Floor Coverings Using an Abrader with a Grit Feed Method
• Effective Date: 01-May-2020
• Refers: ASTM G195-13a - Standard Guide for Conducting Wear Tests Using a Rotary Platform Abraser
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2013
• Refers: ASTM G195-13 - Standard Guide for Conducting Wear Tests Using a Rotary Platform Abraser
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2013
• Refers: ASTM E122-09e1 - Standard Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate, With Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a Lot or Process
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2011
• Refers: ASTM E122-09 - Standard Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate, With Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a Lot or Process
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2009
• Refers: ASTM D792-08 - Standard Test Methods for Density and Specific Gravity (Relative Density) of Plastics by Displacement
• Effective Date: 15-Jun-2008
• Refers: ASTM G195-08 - Standard Guide for Conducting Wear Tests Using a Rotary Platform, Double-Head Abraser
• Effective Date: 01-May-2008
• Refers: ASTM E122-07 - Standard Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate, With Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a Lot or Process
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2007
• Refers: ASTM D792-00 - Standard Test Methods for Density and Specific Gravity (Relative Density) of Plastics by Displacement
• Effective Date: 10-Dec-2000
• Refers: ASTM D792-98 - Standard Test Methods for Density and Specific Gravity (Relative Density) of Plastics by Displacement
• Effective Date: 10-Dec-2000
• Refers: ASTM E122-99 - Standard Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate, With a Specified Tolerable Error, the Average for Characteristic of a Lot or Process
• Effective Date: 10-Oct-2000
• Refers: ASTM E122-00 - Standard Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate, With a Specified Tolerable Error, the Average for Characteristic of a Lot or Process
• Effective Date: 10-Oct-2000
• Referred By: ASTM G195-22 - Standard Guide for Conducting Wear Tests Using a Rotary Platform Abraser
• Effective Date: 01-May-2020

Overview

ASTM F510/F510M-20, titled Standard Test Method for Resistance to Abrasion of Resilient Floor Coverings Using an Abrader with a Grit Feed Method, is an internationally recognized laboratory testing standard published by ASTM International. This standard outlines a precise method for assessing the abrasion resistance of resilient flooring materials under controlled conditions, helping manufacturers, researchers, and quality control professionals evaluate how well flooring products withstand wear from abrasive particles.

Abrasion from dirt, debris, and particulate matter is a common cause of wear on resilient floor coverings in real-world settings. This test method simulates such in-use conditions by employing a modified Taber abraser equipped with leather-clad brass wheels and an aluminum oxide grit feed. The outcome assists in product development, comparative testing, and assessment of expected flooring performance.

Key Topics

• Abrasion Resistance Testing: The standard defines a procedure for measuring the susceptibility of floor coverings to wear from fine hard particles, which directly impacts product durability and service life.
• Test Equipment and Procedure: Utilizes a modified Taber abraser, in which standard abrading wheels are replaced by leather-clad brass rollers. During testing, a grit-feeding device dispenses standardized aluminum oxide grit onto the rotating specimen, simulating real-life wear from foot traffic, especially in dusty or high-usage environments.
• Evaluation Factors: The standard acknowledges that abrasion resistance depends on material properties (hardness, resilience), surface characteristics (embossing, texture), and the specifics of the test (abradant type, pressure, vacuum).
• Result Interpretation: While the test simulates one type of abrasive action, results should primarily support research and product development rather than serve as definitive indicators of field performance or direct commercial comparisons.
• Reporting and Reproducibility: Guidance on calculating weight or volume loss, determining repeatability and reproducibility, and proper reporting procedures is provided to enhance the reliability and comparability of measured data.

Applications

• Product Development: Flooring manufacturers use the ASTM F510/F510M test method during the development and refinement of resilient floor coverings to optimize material formulations for improved abrasion resistance.
• Quality Control: The method serves as a benchmark for quality assurance, ensuring that flooring products consistently meet specified durability requirements.
• Comparative Testing: Research institutions and third-party labs employ this standard for comparing wear resistance among various flooring products and materials.
• Specification Compliance: Project managers, architects, and procurement specialists may reference this method in procurement documents to confirm flooring meets the minimum standard for abrasion resistance.
• Academic Research: It is also a valuable tool in material science studies investigating the relationship between composition, processing, and wear characteristics of polymeric and resilient flooring surfaces.

Related Standards

• ASTM D792: Test Methods for Density and Specific Gravity (Relative Density) of Plastics by Displacement - referenced for material property assessment.
• ASTM G195: Guide for Conducting Wear Tests Using a Rotary Platform Abraser - provides foundational guidance on rotary abrasion testing.
• ANSI B74.12: American National Standard for Checking the Size of Abrasive Grain for Grinding Wheels, Polishing, and Industrial Uses - referenced for abrasive grit specifications.
• ASTM E122: Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate, with Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a Lot or Process - guides statistical treatment and sampling protocols.

By following ASTM F510/F510M-20, industry professionals gain a reliable and repeatable method for determining the abrasion resistance of resilient flooring. This supports better product development, more informed purchasing, and improved long-term flooring performance. For official and up-to-date content, always refer to the current published standard from ASTM International.

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: F510/F510M − 20
Standard Test Method for
Resistance to Abrasion of Resilient Floor Coverings Using
an Abrader with a Grit Feed Method
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F510/F510M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year
of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.
A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope 1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
2 safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
1.1 This test method describes a laboratory procedure for
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
determining the abrasion resistance of resilient flooring using
3 priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
an abrader with a grit feeder.
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.2 Theequipmentusedinthistestmethodisamodification
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
of the Taber abraser. The regular abrading wheels are replaced
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
by leather clad brass wheels (rollers). As the specimen holder
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
rotates, a grit-feeding device dispenses aluminum oxide grit
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
onto the specimen before the grit passes under the leather clad
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
brass wheels. As the specimen rotates, the rub-wear action of
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
the wheels and abrasive grit causes abrasion on the test piece.
2. Referenced Documents
Using the vacuum system incorporated in the apparatus, the
usedgritandabradedmaterialareremovedafterpassingunder
2.1 ASTM Standards:
both wheels.
D792Test Methods for Density and Specific Gravity (Rela-
tive Density) of Plastics by Displacement
1.3 This test method employs a rotary, rubbing action
E122PracticeforCalculatingSampleSizetoEstimate,With
causedbylooseabrasivegritandthetwoabradingwheels.One
Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a
wheelrubsthespecimenfromthecenteroutwardandtheother
Lot or Process
from the outside toward the center. The wheels traverse a
complete circle and have an abrasive action on the rotating G195Guide for Conducting Wear Tests Using a Rotary
Platform Abraser
specimen at all angles. This action approaches the twisting
action between shoe and floor that occurs when a person turns.
3. Terminology
Theuseofloosegritservesthefunctionofanabradantandalso
3.1 Definitions:
aids in the rolling action characteristic of normal walking.
3.1.1 abrasion—of resilient floor coverings, a form of wear,
1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
in which a gradual removing of a flooring surface is caused by
are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in
the frictional action of relatively fine hard particles.
each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to
3.1.2 resistance to abrasion—of resilient floor coverings,
ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be
the ability of a material to withstand mechanical actions of
used independently of the other, and values from the two
relatively fine hard particles, which by rubbing, scraping, and
systems shall not be combined.
eroding remove material from a floor covering surface.
1 4. Significance and Use
ThistestmethodisunderthejurisdictionofASTMCommitteeF06onResilient
Floor Coverings and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F06.20 on Test
4.1 When subjected to normal in-use traffic conditions, a
Methods.
flooring material is exposed to abrasion caused by the destruc-
Current edition approved May 1, 2020. Published June 2020. Originally
approved in 1978. Last previous edition approved in 2014 as F510–14. DOI: tive action of fine hard particles. This situation occurs when-
10.1520/F0510_F0510M-20.
ever loose debris, dirt and other particulate matter exists
This test method is described by W. E. Irwin in “Development of a Method to
MeasureWearonResilientFlooring,” Journal of Testing and Evaluation,Vol4,No.
1, January 1976, pp. 15–20. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
This grit feed method is frequently referred to as the “Frick Grit Feed Method” contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
becauseitisbasedonworkdonebyOttoF.V.Frickasdescribedin“StudiesofWear Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
on Flooring Materials,” Wear, Vol 14, 1969, pp. 119-131. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F510/F510M − 20
4.3 This test method is designed to simulate one kind of
abrasive action and abradant that a flooring may encounter in
the field. However, results should not be used as an absolute
index of ultimate life because, as noted, there are too many
factorsandinteractionstoconsider.Alsoinvolvedarethemany
different types of service locations. Therefore, the data from
this test method are of value chiefly in the development of
materials and should not be used without qualifications as a
basis for commercial comparisons.
5. Apparatus
5.1 Apparatus , as shown in Fig. 1, shall consist of the
following:
5.1.1 Abraser, as described in Guide G195 with auxiliary
weights marked 1000 g (see X1.1.6).
5.1.2 S-39 Leather-clad brass wheels,thebrasshubshallbe
cylindrical shaped, have a diameter of 44.4 mm [1.75 in.], a
widthof12.7mm[0.50in.],andincludeanaxialhole16.0mm
[0.625 in.]; weight of the brass hub shall be 145 g [5.11 oz].
Width of the leather covering shall be 12.7 mm [0.50 in.]. The
minimum diameter of the leather covered brass wheel shall be
46 mm [1 ⁄16 in.].
5.1.3 Vacuum unit, or equivalent, and an optional water trap
FIG. 1 Taber Abraser with Grit Feeder
as shown in Fig. 2. The purpose of the water trap is to protect
the vacuum equipment motor, reduce the need to empty the
vacuum bag frequently, and minimize readjustment of speed.
between traffic bodies (that is, shoes and a flooring surface).
Theinletpipetothewatertrapshouldbefarenoughawayfrom
Under continuing exposure to an “abrasive action,” a flooring thewatersurfacesothatundueturbulenceisavoidedandwater
material may suffer a thickness loss sufficient to reduce its
does not enter the exhaust line.
service life. 5.1.4 Grit Feeding Device, that provides a regular flow of
abrasive grit particles; consisting of a storage reservoir for the
4.2 Abrasion resistance measurements of resilient floor
aluminum oxide grit, grit distribution nozzle, speed control for
coveringscanbecomplicatedsincetheresistancetoabrasionis
adjusting grit feed rate, and vacuum pick-up nozzle.
affected by many factors. These may include the physical
properties of the material in the floor covering surface, par- 5.2 S-41 Aluminum Oxide Grit , 240 aluminum oxide grit,
ticularly its hardness and resilience; type and degree of added
unless otherwise specified by the interested parties.
substances,suchasfillersandpigments;surfacecharacteristics
ofthespecimen,suchastype,depth,andamountofembossing.
The sole source of supply of the apparatus known to the committee at this time
It can also be affected by conditions of the test, including the
is Taber Industries, 455 Bryant St., North Tonawanda, NY 14120. If you are aware
type and characteristics of the abradant and how it acts on the
of alternative suppliers, please provide this information to ASTM Headquarters.
area of the specimen being abraded; pressure between the
Your comments will receive careful consideration at a meeting of the responsible
specimen and leather clad brass wheels; and vacuum suction. technical committee, which you may attend.
NOTE 1—A vacuum-tight seal between the cover and jar is not required.
FIG. 2 Water Trap
F510/F510M − 20
5.3 S-38 Standardization Plates , 100 mm [4.0 in.] square, 8. Conditioning
cell-cast acrylic sheet witha7mm[ ⁄4 in.] center hole.
8.1 Forthosetestswhereconditioningisrequired,condition
5.4 Sieve, No. 80 [180 µm].
the specimens at 23 °C 6 2 °C [73.4 °F 6 3.6 °F] and 50 %
6 5% relative humidity for not less than 40 h prior to test.
5.5 Equipment, for determining specific gravity.
8.2 Test Conditions—Conduct tests in the standard labora-
5.6 Analytical Balance, for weighing specimens to a preci-
tory atmosphere of 23 °C 6 2 °C [73.4 °F 6 3.6 °F] and 50 %
sion of 0.001 g.
6 5% relative humidity unless otherwise agreed upon by the
5.7 Die or Knife, for cutting specimens to designated size.
interested parties.
5.8 Oven, to dry grit by heating at 82°C [180°F].
9. Procedure
5.9 Static Eliminator.
9.1 Determine the specific gravity of the material to be
6. Test Specimens
tested in accordance with standard analytical procedures, such
asMethodA-1orA-2inTestMethodD792.Ifthespecimenas
6.1 Specimen Thickness—The standard material thickness
received is not homogeneous but possesses a surface that
that can be evaluated with the Taber abraser is 6.5 mm [0.25
differs from the body or core, determine the specific gravity of
in.]orless.Formaterialsthickerthan6.5mm[0.25in.]butless
the surface alone. If abrasion is to be carried beyond the
than12.7mm[0.50in.],anextensionnutsuchastypeS-21 or
equivalent may be used. surface of the body, also determine the specific gravity of the
latterandcalculateandreporttheabrasionresistanceofthetwo
6.2 Specimen Size—The width of the resulting wear path is
components separately.
12.7mm[0.50in.]andislocated31.75mm[1.25in.]fromthe
center of the specimen. For most rigid materials, a sample 100 9.2 Screen the S-41 aluminum oxide grit through a U.S.
mm [4 in.] square is recommended. If the material is flexible
Standard Sieve No. 80 [180 µm] and dry for1hat82°C [180
and can be lifted by the vacuum nozzle suction, a round °F]. Allow the grit to cool in a temperature and humidity
specimen100mm[4in.]indiameterissuggestedtopermitthe
controlled room prior to use.
use of the specimen platform hold down ring.A6.5 mm [0.25
9.3 Fill the grit reservoir with grit.Adjust the rate of feed to
in.] diameter hole is drilled through the center of the specimen
35 g 6 5 g per 100 specimen revolutions. The feed rate shall
to allow fastening to the specimen platform.
be measured by holding a tared container under the nozzle of
6.3 The required number of specimens for each test shall be
the grit feeder for 100 specimen revolutions and weighing the
indicated in the material specification. If no number is given,
amount of grit delivered. The feed rate may be controlled by
four samples shall be taken from the material and one
adjustingthegritfeedermotorspeed.Thecollectedgritmaybe
determination made on each. The average of the four or
returned to the grit reservoir. It is suggested that the grit feed
otherwise specified measurements shall be reported as the
rate check be made after every third run.
abrasion loss for the material.
9.4 When the specimens have been prepared and
conditioned, wipe with a soft cloth that has been dampened
7. Calibration and Standardization
withstaticeliminatorandrecordtheinitialvaluesforweightto
7.1 Verify the calibration of the abrader as directed by the
the nearest 0.001 g. Handle samples with care to eliminate
equipment manufacturer (see Appendix X1).
contact with moisture from the hands or other environmental
contact.
7.2 Adjust the abrader with the grit feeder for proper
operation using cell-cast acrylic sheet such as S-38 standard-
9.5 Place the specimen face up over the rubber mat on the
ization plates as the standard material. The equipment, when
turntable platform. Secure the specimen using the clamp plate
runningproperly,shallproduceanaverageweightlossof127.5
and nut. The hold down ring may be used with circular
mg 6 10 mg for four specimens, and 127.5 mg 6 18 mg for
specimens, to prevent the vacuum from lifting the specimen
an individual test of 2000 revolutions (Note 3). Operation of
during testing.
theequipmentforcalibrationshallbeasdescribedinSection9,
9.6 Adjust the feeder nozzle so that it is no higher than 6.5
except that specific gravity will not need to be determined.
mm[0.25in.]abovethespecimenandsothatthestreamofgrit
NOTE 1—The average weight loss reported in 7.2 is based on S-41
delivered will evenly cover the wear path generated by the
aluminum oxide grit, and may not be applicable if other abrasive grits are
wheels. This should be done prior to the start of the test.
used.
NOTE 2—To generate good test results, it is essential the grit feeding
9.7 Place the 1000-g auxiliary weights on each of the
device is positioned such that the abrasive grit falls in the path of the
abraser arms. Fasten the leather-clad brass wheels to each arm
wheels.Thecorrectlocationofthefeedercanbeverifiedbyturningoffthe
and lower to the specimen surface. Prior to use, new leather-
vacuum and collecting grit for one revolution on a plate marked with
concentric circles that match the location of the inner and outer diameter clad wheels shall be preconditioned by subjecting them to an
of the wear path.
initialtestof200
...

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: F510/F510M − 14 F510/F510M − 20
Standard Test Method for
Resistance to Abrasion of Resilient Floor Coverings Using
an Abrader with a Grit Feed Method
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F510/F510M; 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.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope
1.1 This test method describes a laboratory procedure for determining the abrasion resistance of resilient flooring using an
abrader with a grit feeder.
1.2 The equipment used in this test method is a modification of the Taber abraser. The regular abrading wheels are replaced by
leather clad brass wheels (rollers). As the specimen holder rotates, a grit-feeding device feedsdispenses aluminum oxide grit onto
the specimen before it the grit passes under the leather clad brass wheels. As the specimen rotates, the rub-wear action of the wheels
and abrasive grit causes abrasion on the test piece. Using the vacuum system incorporated in the apparatus, the used grit and
abraded material are removed after passing under both wheels.
1.3 This test method employs a rotary, rubbing action caused by loose abrasive grit and the two abrading wheels. One wheel
rubs the specimen from the center outward and the other from the outside toward the center. The wheels traverse a complete circle
and have an abrasive action on the rotating specimen at all angles. This action approaches the twisting action between shoe and
floor that occurs when a person turns. The use of loose grit serves the function of an abradant and also aids in the rolling action
characteristic of normal walking.
1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each
system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used
independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.
1.5 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.
1.6 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:
D792 Test Methods for Density and Specific Gravity (Relative Density) of Plastics by Displacement
E122 Practice for Calculating Sample Size to Estimate, With Specified Precision, the Average for a Characteristic of a Lot or
Process
G195 Guide for Conducting Wear Tests Using a Rotary Platform Abraser
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F06 on Resilient Floor Coverings and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F06.20 on Test Methods.
Current edition approved May 1, 2014May 1, 2020. Published June 2014June 2020. Originally approved in 1978. Last previous edition approved in 20132014 as
F510–13.–14. DOI: 10.1520/F0510_F0510M-14.10.1520/F0510_F0510M-20.
This test method is described by W. E. Irwin in “Development of a Method to Measure Wear on Resilient Flooring,” Journal of Testing and Evaluation, Vol 4, No. 1,
January 1976, pp. 15–20.This test method is described by W. E. Irwin in “Development of a Method to Measure Wear on Resilient Flooring,” Journal of Testing and
Evaluation, Vol 4, No. 1, January 1976, pp. 15–20.
This grit feed method is frequently referred to as the “Frick Grit Feed Method” because it is based on work done by Otto F. V. Frick as described in “Studies of Wear
on Flooring Materials,” Wear, Vol 14, 1969, pp. 119–131.This grit feed method is frequently referred to as the “Frick Grit Feed Method” because it is based on work done
by Otto F. V. Frick as described in “Studies of Wear on Flooring Materials,” Wear, Vol 14, 1969, pp. 119-131.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. 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
F510/F510M − 20
2.2 ANSI Standard:
B74.12 Checking the Size of Abrasive Grain for Grinding Wheels, Polishing, and General Industrial Uses
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 abrasion—of resilient floor coverings, a form of wear, in which a gradual removing of a flooring surface is caused by the
frictional action of relatively fine hard particles.
3.1.2 resistance to abrasion—of resilient floor coverings, the ability of a material to withstand mechanical actions of relatively
fine hard particles, which by rubbing, scraping, and eroding remove material from a floor covering surface.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 When subjected to normal in-use traffic conditions, a flooring material is exposed to abrasion caused by the destructive
action of fine hard particles. This situation occurs whenever loose debris, dirt and other particulate matter exists between traffic
bodies (that is, shoes and a flooring surface). Under continuing exposure to an “abrasive action,” a flooring material may suffer
a thickness loss sufficient to reduce its service life.
4.2 Abrasion resistance measurements of resilient floor coverings can be complicated since the resistance to abrasion is affected
by many factors. These may include the physical properties of the material in the floor covering surface, particularly its hardness
and resilience; type and degree of added substances, such as fillers and pigments; surface characteristics of the specimen, such as
type, depth, and amount of embossing. It can also be affected by conditions of the test, including the type and characteristics of
the abradant and how it acts on the area of the specimen being abraded; pressure between the specimen and leather clad brass
wheels; and vacuum suction.
4.3 This test method is designed to simulate one kind of abrasive action and abradant that a flooring may encounter in the field.
However, results should not be used as an absolute index of ultimate life because, as noted, there are too many factors and
interactions to consider. Also involved are the many different types of service locations. Therefore, the data from this test method
are of value chiefly in the development of materials and should not be used without qualifications as a basis for commercial
comparisons.
FIG. 1 Taber Abraser with Grit Feeder
F510/F510M − 20
5. Apparatus
5.1 Apparatus , as shown in Fig. 1, shall consist of the following:
5.1.1 Abraser, as described in Guide G195. with auxiliary weights marked 1000 g (see X1.1.6).
5.1.2 S-39 Leather-coveredLeather-clad brass wheels,, the brass hub shall be cylindrical shaped, have a diameter of 4.44 cm
[1.75 in.], and the width shall be 1.27 cm [0.5044.4 mm [1.75 in.], a width of 12.7 mm [0.50 in.], and include an axial hole 16.0
mm [0.625 in.]; weight of the brass hub shall be 145 g [5.11 oz]. Width of the leather covering shall be 1.27 cm [0.50 in.], and
the weight of the leather strip shall be 5 g [0.202 oz]. 12.7 mm [0.50 in.]. The minimum diameter of the leather covered brass wheel
shall be 46 mm [1 ⁄16 in.].
5.1.3 Vacuum unit,, or equivalent, and an optional water trap as shown in Fig. 2. The purpose of the water trap is to protect the
vacuum equipment motor, reduce the need to empty the vacuum bag frequently, and minimize readjustment of speed. The inlet
pipe to the water trap should be far enough away from the water surface so that undue turbulence is avoided and water does not
enter the exhaust line.
5.1.4 Grit Feeding Device,, that provides a regular flow of abrasive grit particles; consisting of a storage reservoir for the
aluminum oxide grit, grit distribution nozzle, speed control for adjusting grit feed rate, and vacuum pick-up nozzle.
5.2 S-41 Aluminum Oxide Grit , 240 aluminum oxide grit, ANSI B74.12 unless otherwise specified by the interested parties.
5.3 S-38 Standardization Plates , 100 mm [4.0 in.] square, castcell-cast acrylic sheet with a 7 mm [ ⁄4 in.] center hole.
5.4 Sieve, No. 80 [180 μm].
5.5 Equipment, for determining specific gravity.
5.6 Analytical Balance, for weighing specimens to a precision of 0.001 g.
5.7 Die or Knife, for cutting specimens to designated size.
5.8 Oven, to dry grit by heating at 82°C [180°F].
5.9 Static Eliminator Brush. Eliminator.
6. Test Specimens
6.1 Specimen Thickness—The standard material thickness that can be evaluated with the Taber abraser is 6.356.5 mm [0.25 in.]
or less. For materials thicker than 6.356.5 mm [0.25 in.] but less than 12.7 mm [0.50 in.], an extension nut such as type S-21 or
equivalent may be used.
6.2 Specimen Size—The width of the resulting wear path is 12.7 mm [0.50 in.] and is located 31.75 mm [1.25 in.] from the center
of the specimen. For most rigid materials, a sample approximately 100 mm [4 in.] square is recommended. If the material is flexible
and can be lifted by the vacuum nozzle, nozzle suction, a round specimen approximately 100 mm [4 in.] in diameter is suggested
to permit the use of the specimen tableplatform hold down ring. A 6.5 mm [0.25 in.] diameter hole is drilled through the precise
center of the specimen to allow fastening to the specimen holder.platform.
6.3 The required number of specimens for each test shall be indicated in the material specification. If no number is given, four
samples shall be taken from the material and one determination made on each. The average of the four or otherwise specified
measurements shall be takenreported as the abrasion loss for the material.
NOTE 1—A vacuum-tight seal between the cover and jar is not required.
FIG. 2 Water Trap
The sole source of supply of the apparatus known to the committee at this time is Taber Industries, 455 Bryant St., North Tonawanda, NY 14120. If you are aware of
alternative suppliers, please provide this information to ASTM Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consideration at a meeting of the responsible technical
committee, which you may attend.
F510/F510M − 20
7. Calibration and Standardization
7.1 Verify the calibration of the abrader as directed by the equipment manufacturer (see Appendix X1).
7.2 Adjust the abrader with the grit feeder for proper operation using castcell-cast acrylic sheet such as S-38 standardization
plates as the standard material. The equipment, when running properly, shall produce an average weight loss of 127.5 mg 6 10
mg for four specimens, and 127.5 mg 6 18 mg for an individual test atof 2000 revolutions (Note 3). Operation of the equipment
for calibration shall be as described in Section 9, except that specific gravity will not need to be determined.
NOTE 1—The average weight loss reported in 7.2 is based on S-41 aluminum oxide grit, and may not be applicable if other abrasive grits are used.
NOTE 2—Prior to use, the leather clad wheels must be broken in. To do this, subject the wheels to an initial test of 2000 cycles on an S-38
standardization plate with results to be discarded.To generate good test results, it is essential the grit feeding device is positioned such that the abrasive
grit falls in the path of the wheels. The correct location of the feeder can be verified by turning off the vacuum and collecting grit for one revolution on
a plate marked with concentric circles that match the location of the inner and outer diameter of the wear path.
NOTE 3—If the desired weight loss is not obtained, check on the following: grit feed rate, path of the grit, location where the grit is deposited, removal
of the grit, condition of the leather on the wheels, free rotation of wheel bearings, specimen slippage, static charge effects, humidity control, faulty
revolution counter, and weighing errors.
8. Conditioning
8.1 For those tests where conditioning is required, condition the specimens at 23 °C 6 2°C 2 °C [73.4 °F 6 3.6°F] 3.6 °F] and
50 % 6 5 % relative humidity for not less than 40 h prior to test.
8.2 Test Conditions—Conduct tests in the standard laboratory atmosphere of 23 °C 6 2°C 2 °C [73.4 °F 6 3.6°F] 3.6 °F] and
50 % 6 5 % relative humidity unless otherwise agreed upon by the interested parties.
9. Procedure
9.1 Determine the specific gravity of the material to be tested in accordance with standard analytical procedures, such as Method
A-1 or A-2 in Test MethodsMethod D792. If the specimen as received is not homogeneous but possesses a surface that differs from
the body or core, determine the specific gravity of the surface alone. If abrasion is to be carried beyond the surface of the body,
also determine the specific gravity of the latter and calculate and report the abrasion resistance of the two components separately.
9.2 Screen the S-41 aluminum oxide grit through a U.S. Standard Sieve No. 80 [180 μm] and dry for 1 h at 82°C [180°F]. 82
°C [180 °F]. Allow the grit to cool in a temperature and humidity controlled room prior to use.
9.3 Fill the grit reservoir with grit. Adjust the rate of feed to 35 g 6 5 g per 100 specimen revolutions. The feed rate mayshall
be measured by holding a tared petri dish container under the nozzle of the grit feeder for 100 specimen revolutions and weighing
the amount of grit delivered. The feed rate may be controlled by adjusting the grit feeder motor speed. The collected grit may be
returned to the grit reservoir. It is suggested that the grit feed rate check be made after every third run.
9.4 When the specimens have been prepared and conditioned, brush with the wipe with a soft cloth that has been dampened
with static eliminator and record the initial values for weight to the nearest 0.001 g. Handle samples with care to eliminate contact
with moisture from the hands or other environmental contact.
9.5 Place the specimen face up over the rubber mat on the turntable platform. Secure the specimen using the clamp plate and
nut. The hold down ring may be used with circular specimens, to keep the specimen from lifting. pre
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