This test method may be used to estimate the relative abrasion resistance of subject materials as described in 1.1. No correlation between this accelerated test and service performance is given or implied, due, in part, to the widely varying nature of service conditions.

The formulas, for which the mixing and curing specifications are given in Annex A1, once prepared, are referred to as calibration compounds. These calibration compounds may be used to determine the performance status of the cutting knives as described in this test method.

The performance of the cutting knives may also be determined by periodically determining their dimensions as described in 6.1.7.

The calibration compounds are used as reference standards to which the abrasion resistance, determined by volume loss of a subject material, may be compared.

Once the resistance to abrasion is established, using this methodology, for a specific material, the results achieved may be used as a basis for future comparative analysis of identical materials, either as agreed upon between laboratories, or between customer and supplier.

FIG. 1 Typical Pico Tester

FIG. 1Typical Pico Tester (continued)

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the abrasion resistance of vulcanized (thermoset) rubbers, thermoplastic elastomers, and elastomeric and similar materials to a standardized reference system. A standardized set of reference compounds is used to calculate relative abrasion resistance. These reference compounds are also used to determine the relative performance, within a permissible range, of the cutting knives used in performing the test.

1.2 All materials, instruments, or equipment used for the determination of mass, force, or dimension shall have traceability to the National Institute for Standards and Technology, or other internationally recognized organization parallel in nature.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.