Analysis of Martindale Abrasion Test

This article is a must read if you want to understand the term and what it entails.At the end of this article,you will understand what the Martindale Abrasion test is, how the Martindale Abrasion test works and how to reads the Martindale Abrasion test result.

Before we go into the article, I will like to let you know that this test will be carried out using a machine and Martindale Abrasion and pulling tester TF210 will be a perfect match to get the best.The Martindale abrasion test is another fabric test carried out to test the quality of fabrics. This test is best done with the Martindale Abrasion and pulling tester TF210.I will like to add that the Martindale Abrasion test can also be called the Martindale rub test and involves simulating natural wear of a seat cover. The Martindale Abrasion test will require the textile sample to be rubbed against a surface that has a standard abrasive surface. While rubbing the textile against the abrasive surface, it must be done with a specified force.The abrasive surface should preferably be of the Martindale Abrasion and Pilling test TF210 instrument. This Martindale Abrasion and Pilling test TF210 instrument should work in the interval of 5000 cycles to sum up into the wear number. Martindale happens to be the unit.If you are thinking of a means to test and check for the durability of a fabric, then the Martindale Abrasion test is just perfect. The Martindale Abrasion test is carried out using the Martindale Abrasion and pilling tester to check the durability of upholstery fabrics if they will be suitable for various uses.

Having understood the basic concept of the Martindale Abrasion test, it is important we look at how the Martindale Abrasion test works.

How does the Martindale Abrasion test works?

This process is not complicated once the Martindale Abrasion and pulling tester TF210 is readily available.

Pull out the fabric to be tested and load the fabric onto the lower plates of the Machine (Martindale Abrasion and pulling tester TF210). Then the abradant (the abradant can be a small disc of either worsted wool or wire mesh). The abradant is then rubbed against the specimen to be tested in a oscillating circle.

Ensure you inspect the fabric continually to check for wear and tear. Immediately you notice any change in appearance of the fabric, or when two yarns break, you end the test immediately.

How to read the Martindale test result ?

The test result from the Martindale machine is usually given as a score of 1000’s of rubs or cycles completed. The higher the score of rubs or cycles, the more suitable the fabric is for heavier usage. We categorize fabrics basically on the test results.

Research has shown that when a result of less than 1000 rubs is obtained, the fabric is recommended to be used for decorative purpose (i.e accents and cushion), so therefore, this fabric is not recommended for general use.
If the fabric gives a result of 10,000 to 15,000 rubs, the fabric is highly recommended for use on furniture that will be used occasionally. The reason why the fabric is recommended for light domestic is because the fabric is constructed delicately or the fabric is made of delicate yarns.
If the fabric gives 25,000 to 30,000 rubs, then it can be used for heavy duty (on the main furniture in the house which will be used daily and continually).

If you are having more than 30,000 rubs, then the fabric is suitable for both commercial and heavy duty use (commercial furniture and environments).
Lastly, people have problem when the notice that their has more than 50,000. The answer to this is that rubs like this have little impact in the practical application.This is because the Martindale test is for abrasion only and some other factors can affect wear and tear of a fabric, other factors like Chemicals used to wash the textile, the UV exposure etc, just the way a fabric having high rub count means the fabric will be resistant to cat claws.
I am sure at this point, you will understand what the Martindale Abrasion test is and reason why it is important to be done for fabric, I am also sure you also learnt about the Martindale Abrasion and pulling tester TF210 machine to carry out the test.I hope this article has been helpful on what Martindale Abrasion test is all about.

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