Silica sand produces a slower rate of abrasion for organic coatings than that provided by silicon carbide. For some types of coatings, it also provides greater differentiation.

The abrasion resistance scales produced by the two methods differ, but the methods provide approximately the same rankings of coatings for abrasion resistance.

Each of the methods has been found useful for rating the abrasion resistance of specific types of coatings. For example Method A (falling sand) has been used for rating floor coatings while Method B (falling silicon carbide) has been used for rating coatings for ship decks.

FIG. 1 Apparatus for Falling Sand Abrasion Test

1.1 These test methods cover the determination of the resistance of organic coatings to abrasion produced by abrasive falling onto coatings applied to a plane rigid surface, such as a metal or glass panel.

1.2 Two test methods based on different abrasives are covered as follows:

1.3 These methods should be restricted to testing in only one laboratory when numerical values are used because of the poor reproducibility of the methods (see 13.1.2 and 21.1.2). Interlaboratory agreement is improved significantly when ranking is used in place of numerical values.

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

This standard does not purport to address 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.