Choosing the Correct Tools for the Elcometer 1720 Abrasion and Washability Tester

When testing a materials or coatings resistance to abrasion or washability, it is crucial that the tests the sample or product is subjected to are similar to the conditions it will likely endure in real-world use, so you can test efficiently and ensure the most reliable results.

The Elcometer 1720 Abrasion and Washability Tester has a wide range of tools and accessories, to suit different applications and conform to different international standards.

So, which tool should you choose?

For washability testing, Elcometer offer four different types of sponge tools.

Two of the tools consist of a sponge in a stainless steel brush holder with attached weights. The first is supplied with a 337 gram weight for testing towards ASTM D4213:92 and ASTM D4828 and the second is supplied with an additional 250 gram weight, for testing towards ASTM D3450.

The third sponge tool has an abrasive pad attached to the top and bottom of the sponge and also includes a 76 gram weight, for testing in accordance to ASTM D4213.

The abrasive tool is simply the abrasive pad, without the sponge, for working with ISO 11998.

Sponge tools are ideal for testing on any product that will need to be washed or cleaned using a traditional washing up sponge with water and soap.

For dry abrasion testing, the wild boar brush can be used in accordance to DIN 53778-2:1983. DIN explains that ‘pig bristles are a natural product and thus subject to the variations occurring in nature’.

The nylon brush is ideal for products which will be subject to dry brushing such as laminate flooring. The tool comes with a removable weight, allowing accordance with ASTM D2486.

The Linear Abrader sometimes known as a “Crockmeter” can be used. Ideal for testing the colour fastness of fabrics, this tool is supplied with a removable stainless steel rod, test felt, a textile fixing ring and a set of additional masses. This tool can be used in accordance to ASTM F1319, ISO 105-X12 and PSA D45 1010.

Perhaps you want to test the resistance of an item’s label while its shipping. The most suitable tool for this application would be the universal tool which allows you to attach the material of your choice. In this case, you could test a sample of your product, against another sample of your product.

For testing the resistance to abrasion of automotive components, the linear abrader can be used. This tool includes a felt disc and additional weights, allowing the tool to work under a pressure of either 400 grams, for testing in accordance to GME 60269 or 900 grams for testing in accordance to EN 13523-11 and ECCA T11. Supplied with a range of weights to be used in accordance to EN 60730-1-A, the curved sample tool has adjustable height with an elbow joint for curved samples, this tool is ideal for testing abrasion resistance of both coatings and inks.