Martindaleabrasjonstest

The Martindale abrasion test is a widely used method for determining the abrasion and pilling resistance of fabrics. Developed by J.G. Martindale in the 1940s, the test involves rubbing a fabric sample against a standard abrasive material under a controlled pressure. The apparatus consists of a motor that rotates two arms, each holding a specimen holder. A circular abrasive disc is placed beneath each specimen holder.

During the test, the fabric specimen is mounted on a holder and subjected to a rotating abrasive disc. The rubbing action is performed using a specific pressure, typically 9 kPa or 15 kPa, depending on the fabric type. The motion of the arms is a Lissajous curve, which ensures that the specimen covers a wider area of the abrasive surface and provides a more representative wear pattern.

The test is continued until a predetermined number of abrasion cycles have been completed, or until the fabric shows signs of wear such as breaking of threads, visible abrasion, or the formation of pills. For upholstery fabrics, the test is often stopped when a certain number of cycles are reached, indicating sufficient durability for its intended use. For apparel fabrics, the endpoint might be defined by the appearance of pills or significant wear.

The results of the Martindale abrasion test are reported as the number of cycles the fabric endured before reaching the specified endpoint. Higher cycle counts indicate greater abrasion resistance. This standardized test allows manufacturers and consumers to compare the durability of different textile materials, ensuring they meet specific performance requirements for various applications.