GATE (TF) Textile 2013 Question Paper Solution | GATE/2013/TF/47

Fabric abrasion is typically measured using a testing instrument called an abrasion tester or an abrasion resistance tester. There are several methods available for measuring fabric abrasion, and the choice of method depends on the type of fabric being tested, the intended end-use application, and the specific requirements of the testing standard or specification. Some commonly used methods for measuring fabric abrasion include:
Martindale Abrasion Test: This method is widely used for measuring the abrasion resistance of woven and knitted fabrics. It involves rubbing a circular sample of the fabric against an abrasive material, such as a standard abradant fabric or an abrasive paper, in a controlled manner using a Martindale Abrasion Tester. The number of cycles or rubs required to reach a specified level of abrasion or a visible change in the fabric, such as a hole or a noticeable color change, is recorded as the abrasion resistance of the fabric.
Wyzenbeek Abrasion Test: This method is commonly used for measuring the abrasion resistance of upholstery and heavy-duty fabrics. It involves rubbing a straight or zigzag sample of the fabric against an abrasive material, such as a standard abradant fabric or an abrasive paper, in a controlled manner using a Wyzenbeek Abrasion Tester. The number of cycles or double rubs required to reach a specified level of abrasion or a visible change in the fabric is recorded as the abrasion resistance of the fabric.
Taber Abrasion Test: This method is used for measuring the abrasion resistance of a wide range of materials, including fabrics, coatings, and other surface finishes. It involves rubbing a sample of the fabric against an abrasive material, such as an abrasive wheel or a rotating disc, in a controlled manner using a Taber Abrasion Tester. The number of cycles or rubs required to reach a specified level of abrasion or a visible change in the fabric is recorded as the abrasion resistance of the fabric.
Oscillatory Abrasion Test: This method is used for measuring the abrasion resistance of fabrics that are subjected to repeated bending or flexing, such as fabrics used in automotive interiors, shoe uppers, or sportswear. It involves subjecting a sample of the fabric to repeated cycles of bending or flexing in a controlled manner using an oscillatory abrasion tester. The number of cycles or flexes required to reach a specified level of abrasion or a visible change in the fabric is recorded as the abrasion resistance of the fabric.
Suter Test: This method is used for measuring the abrasion resistance of pile fabrics, such as carpets and velvet fabrics. It involves rubbing a sample of the fabric against an abrasive material, such as a standard abradant fabric or an abrasive paper, in a controlled manner using a Suter abrasion tester. The number of cycles or rubs required to reach a specified level of abrasion or a visible change in the fabric is recorded as the abrasion resistance of the fabric.
These are some of the commonly used methods for measuring fabric abrasion. It’s important to note that the test results obtained from different methods may not be directly comparable, as the test conditions, parameters, and requirements can vary depending on the method used. Therefore, it’s essential to follow the relevant testing standards or specifications and use appropriate methods that are suitable for the specific fabric and end-use application.

An abrasion tester in textiles is a testing instrument specifically designed to measure the abrasion resistance of fabrics or other textile materials. Abrasion resistance refers to the ability of a fabric to withstand rubbing, friction, or wear when subjected to mechanical forces, such as during end-use applications or in the manufacturing process.
An abrasion tester typically consists of a test specimen holder, an abrasive material or abradant, and a mechanism for applying controlled rubbing or frictional forces to the fabric sample. The fabric sample is securely mounted on the specimen holder and brought into contact with the abradant, which is then subjected to rubbing or frictional action for a specified number of cycles or for a set duration.
The abrasion tester applies controlled and repeatable rubbing or frictional forces to the fabric sample, simulating the wear and tear that the fabric may experience during actual use. The number of cycles, the pressure applied, the type of abradant used, and the testing parameters can be adjusted to simulate different wear conditions and requirements of various end-use applications.
The abrasion tester is used to assess the durability and performance of fabrics by measuring the degree of abrasion or wear the fabric undergoes under controlled conditions. The results obtained from abrasion testing can be used to evaluate and compare the abrasion resistance of different fabrics, monitor the quality of finished textile products, optimize manufacturing processes, and ensure compliance with relevant standards or specifications.
There are various types of abrasion testers available in the textile industry, including the Martindale Abrasion Tester, Wyzenbeek Abrasion Tester, Taber Abrasion Tester, and Suter Abrasion Tester, among others. Each tester has its specific features, test methods, and applications, and the choice of abrasion tester depends on the type of fabric being tested, the intended end-use application, and the specific requirements of the testing standard or specification.