Taber Abrasion

Taber abrasion tests measure how resistant an object is to wear over time. Small, flat specimens (maximum 100 mm square or radius, 6.35 mm thick) are mounted onto a platform that rotates around a vertical axis. Abrasion wheels, fixed on a horizontal axis, are weighted as appropriate (to control for pressure on the test subject) and lowered onto the specimen. These wheels are traded out depending on the needs of the test. Taber abrasion wheels vary by texture — some rough like sandpaper and some smooth like polished aluminum; the appropriate wheel is selected considering both the composition of the specimen and the conditions that material surfaces will be subjected to while in service.

Then the machine is powered on, and the platform begins to move. The turning of the platform causes the abrasion wheels to start spinning and rubbing the specimen. This resulting friction simulates the amount of wear that specimen would accumulate over the course of years in a live-usage scenario. Each of the variables involved in the test — such as the test load used, the number of cycles (or rotations) and the speed of the platform — can be manipulated by the tester with buttons on a digital display. Technicians make sense of the results by either using comparative measurements or referencing wear rates to established requirements.

Common Measurements
Cycles to a Specific Point
Weight (Mass) Loss

Wear Cycles per Mil thickness

Depth of Wear
Residual Breaking Force
ATS and Taber Abrasion Testing

Although this information is helpful to businesses looking to maintain the quality of their products, acquiring and operating the specialized equipment used to perform these tests can be difficult. Thankfully, Applied Technical Services is not just well-versed in handling Taber abrasion tests, but A2LA accredited as well. Our equipment is calibrated to industry standards, and our technicians measure a test sample’s resistance to wear with an accuracy that our clients have come to rely upon. For over 50 years, ATS has provided impeccable inspection and testing services to satisfied clients from a wide variety of industries. Consider letting us provide for your business’ testing needs — we offer superior services and a faster turn-around time to keep our clients’ businesses rolling.

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