4.1 When subjected to normal in-use traffic conditions, a flooring material is exposed to abrasion caused by the destructive action of fine hard particles. This situation occurs whenever loose debris, dirt and other particulate matter exists between traffic bodies (that is, shoes and a flooring surface). Under continuing exposure to an “abrasive action,” a flooring material may suffer a thickness loss sufficient to reduce its service life.

4.2 Abrasion resistance measurements of resilient floor coverings can be complicated since the resistance to abrasion is affected by many factors. These may include the physical properties of the material in the floor covering surface, particularly its hardness and resilience; type and degree of added substances, such as fillers and pigments; surface characteristics of the specimen, such as type, depth, and amount of embossing. It can also be affected by conditions of the test, including the type and characteristics of the abradant and how it acts on the area of the specimen being abraded; pressure between the specimen and leather clad brass wheels; and vacuum suction.

4.3 This test method is designed to simulate one kind of abrasive action and abradant that a flooring may encounter in the field. However, results should not be used as an absolute index of ultimate life because, as noted, there are too many factors and interactions to consider. Also involved are the many different types of service locations. Therefore, the data from this test method are of value chiefly in the development of materials and should not be used without qualifications as a basis for commercial comparisons.

1.1 This test method² describes a laboratory procedure for determining the abrasion resistance of resilient flooring using an abrader with a grit feeder.³

1.2 The equipment used in this test method is a modification of the Taber abraser. The regular abrading wheels are replaced by leather clad brass wheels (rollers). As the specimen holder rotates, a grit-feeding device feeds aluminum oxide grit onto the specimen before it passes under the leather clad brass wheels. Using the vacuum system incorporated in the apparatus, the used grit and abraded material are removed after passing under both wheels.

1.3 This test method employs a rotary, rubbing action caused by loose abrasive grit and the two abrading wheels. One wheel rubs the specimen from the center outward and the other from the outside toward the center. The wheels traverse a complete circle and have an abrasive action on the rotating specimen at all angles. This action approaches the twisting action between shoe and floor that occurs when a person turns. The use of loose grit serves the function of an abradant and also aids in the rolling action characteristic of normal walking.

1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

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.