ASTM D4966: Standard Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics

1. Test Purpose

2. Apparatus

• Martindale Abrasion Tester:

• Specimen holders (clamp fabrics securely).

• Abrasive materials (e.g., standard woolen cloth or custom abrasives).

• Load weights:

• 198 ± 2 g for general fabrics.

• 395 ± 2 g for heavy-duty fabrics (e.g., upholstery)25.

• A circular platform with 9 test stations.

• Rotates at 50 ± 2 revolutions per minute (RPM) with a Lissajous curve motion to simulate random abrasion35.

• Includes:

3. Sample Preparation

• Specimen Size:

• Cut 60 mm × 60 mm samples (or larger if testing for pilling).

• Test both warp (lengthwise) and weft (crosswise) directions26.

• Preconditioning:

• Condition samples at 20 ± 2°C and 65 ± 4% RH for at least 24 hours to stabilize moisture content57.

4. Test Setup

A. Abrasive Material Preparation

• Use standard abrasives (e.g., ASTM D4966-22 specifies woolen cloth) or customer-provided abrasives.

• Secure the abrasive to the test platform with a pressure hammer and tightening ring, ensuring no wrinkles35.

B. Sample Installation

• Place the fabric sample on the specimen holder, backed by polyurethane foam to mimic real-world compression.

• Attach the appropriate load weight (e.g., 198 g for general fabrics) to the holder26.

C. Parameter Setup

• Test Cycles:

• Apparel: 10,000–20,000 cycles.

• Upholstery: 50,000+ cycles57.

• Typically 10,000–50,000 cycles, depending on fabric type. For example:

• Abrasive Replacement:

• Replace abrasives after 50,000 cycles or sooner if visibly worn35.

5. Testing Procedure

1. Start the Tester:

• Power on the machine, set the required cycles, and initiate the test. The platform will rotate with Lissajous motion35.

2. Monitor Progress:

• Check periodically for signs of abrasion (e.g., thinning, pilling, or holes).

• Stop the test if the fabric reaches a predetermined failure criterion (e.g., 50% yarn breakage)57.

3. Post-Test Evaluation:

• Visual Inspection: Assess surface changes (e.g., pilling, color loss) using a 1–5 scale (5 = no damage).

• Mass Loss: Weigh samples before and after testing to calculate material loss.

• Thickness Measurement: Measure fabric thickness reduction56.

6. Key Requirements

• Environmental Control: Conduct tests in standard atmospheric conditions (20 ± 2°C, 65 ± 4% RH)57.

• Precision: Report results as the average of 5+ specimens per direction. Coefficients of variation should be ≤5%5.

• Safety: Follow manufacturer guidelines for handling abrasives and machinery6.

7. Reporting Results

• Include:

• Test method (ASTM D4966-22).

• Number of cycles, load weight, and abrasive type.

• Visual ratings, mass loss, and thickness data.

• Any deviations from the standard procedure