The degree of image transferred by rubbing (crock) from a copy or printed image can be affected by various factors including the type of machine, the condition of the machine, supplies employed, time since imaging (ribbons) and environmental conditions. As many as possible of these variables should be controlled during the test. A control sample with known characteristics, if available, should be run along with the test samples.

The test is designed to simulate the type of damage resulting from paper rubbing against the printed image.

The test method can be used for control of product quality as well as a research and development tool.

The method is adaptable to images produced from most types of impact and non-impact printers and copiers.

Two different printers employing the same technology may yield prints with variations in optical densities. It may be possible to remove more toner or ink from the darker image yet the performance of the smudged image may be satisfactory. An optional evaluation procedure is available whereby the functional properties of the smudged or abraded image is examined if this is of primary concern.

1.1 This test method describes a procedure for determining the amount of image transferred onto the surface of a white cloth by rubbing.

1.2 The test method can be employed to evaluate the abrasion and smudge resistance of business imaging products produced by impact printers, thermal transfer printers, and non-impact printers or copiers.

1.3 The test method can be used to evaluate the amount of material removed from the sample (smudge or crock). Testing focuses on determining the amount of material deposited on the crockmeter cloth or redeposited in a new location on the sample. The test method can also be employed to measure performance characteristics for a product. The user should select test equipment which is appropriate for measuring the abrasion to the samples. Samples are tested before and after rubbing and comparisons of results made. In this test method product performance evaluations are optional.

1.4 Other test methods employing the Sutherland rub tester, Taber Abrader and Gavarti GA-C.A.T. can be employed to evaluate the smudge and abrasion characteristics. Results by these units are not necessarily equivalent to those obtained with the Crockmeter.

1.5 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.