Martindale Abrasion Tester

To determine the abrasion resistance of textile fabrics, or the wear ability of textile fabrics, a device called the Martindale Abrasion Tester is used. Most and all fabric types may be used on the Martindale Abrasion Tester but fabrics with a pile depth greater than 0.08 inches may give the Martindale Abrasion Tester some difficulty. The device measures abrasion resistance by subjecting the fabric to a rubbing motion in the form of a straight line which eventually becomes an eclipse until it forms another straight line in the opposite direction and then continues to trace the same figure again under preset conditions of pressure and abrasive action.

Plain weave, crossbred, or worsted wool fabric is used for the abrasion along with a felt fabric and the two selected fabrics are what's used on the abrading table and both are cute to a 140 mm diameter. To ensure that the fabrics are completely flat with no creases, the felt is place first on top and central to each abrading table then the abrasive cloth is placed over the felt in the same manner. Next, the pressing weight is placed on to of the abrasive cloth, and then the clamp rings is locked into place and placed over the weight at the same time.

In order to test a fabric for abrasion, the fabric must measure 38 mm in diameter and a fabric of polyether urethane foam is cut to the same size as well. This polyether urethane foam must be used to back any fabric which is 500 g/m squared and is replaced after each test is conducted. This foam and the fabric which is being tested are then placed in the sample holder. The fabric holder is then replaced and tightened and then placed on each of the abrading tables. The weight being used is then selected appropriately for the type of test being performed. While operating the Martindale Abrasion Tester can be programmed to allow a certain number of rubs required. The machine can also be stopped anytime manually as well.

During this test abrasion can occur as any one of the three: when two or more yarns have broken or on a knitted fabric when a hole appears, a change in shade or appearance that is sufficient to evoke a customer complaint, and lastly a mass loss occurs after the abrasion in the fabric. The Martindale Abrasion Tester is used to test the abrasion resistance and wear ability of any certain fabric. It also test to make sure that there will not a be a future complaint from a customer that possesses a certain fabric from any of the three previously stated abrasions which can occur.