Wyzenbeektestet

The Wyzenbeek test is a standardized method used in the textile industry to assess the durability of fabrics, specifically their resistance to abrasion. Developed by the Wyzenbeek company, this test simulates real-world wear and tear by rubbing a fabric sample against a specific abrasive material. The most common abrasives used are cotton duck and wire screen.

During the test, a fabric specimen is mounted taut on a testing machine. A metal cylinder covered with the chosen abrasive material is then repeatedly moved back and forth across the fabric surface. The machine's eccentric mechanism causes the cylinder to rub in a figure-eight motion, covering a specific area of the fabric. The number of double rubs (one forward and one backward motion) is counted.

The test is considered complete when the fabric sample shows visible signs of wear, such as a broken warp or filling yarn, or when a certain number of double rubs has been reached. The result is typically reported as the number of double rubs the fabric withstood before failure. Higher numbers indicate greater abrasion resistance and therefore a more durable fabric. Different fabrics will yield vastly different results, with upholstery fabrics generally requiring higher rub counts than apparel fabrics. The Wyzenbeek test is a crucial tool for manufacturers and consumers alike in determining the suitability and longevity of textiles for various applications.