how do you test for abrasion on fabric car seats?

Abrasion resistance is a key property of car seat fabrics as they are subject to frequent wear and tear during use. It is important to test for abrasion on fabric car seats to ensure that the fabrics chosen for the car seats can withstand regular use and maintain their appearance over time. The most commonly used method for testing abrasion resistance is the Martindale Abrasion Testing Method, which is described below:


1. Sample Fabric: Carefully select a representative sample of the car seat fabric for testing. Ensure that the sample is free from visible defects such as stains, holes, or snags.


2. Test Equipment: Set up a Martindale Abrasion Tester in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. This equipment consists of a circular specimen holder that rotates during testing, a weighted arm that applies pressure to the specimen, and an abrasive material (usually a standard cotton duck fabric) that is placed on top of the specimen.


3. Test Method: Place the sample fabric on the specimen holder of the Martindale tester. The abrasive material is placed on top of the sample, and the weighted arm is placed on top of the abrasive material. The specimen holder is then rotated at a fixed speed, typically around 60 rpm.


4. Number of Test Cycles: The Martindale Abrasion Tester counts the number of cycles that the sample undergoes before it shows significant signs of wear. A cycle is defined as one complete revolution of the specimen holder. The number of cycles varies depending on the requirements of the standard or specification being used and the expected usage conditions of the fabric.


5. Evaluation: After testing, visually inspect the sample fabric for signs of wear, such as pilling, fuzzing, or color loss. Use magnification and other methods as necessary to examine the fabric closely. Record the number of test cycles the fabric could endure before reaching the point of failure.


6. Test Results and Interpretation: Compare the number of test cycles that the fabric could withstand with the required limits of the applicable standard or specification. If the sample fabric meets the requirements, it can be considered suitable for use in car seats. If the fabric does not meet the necessary standards, either the fabric needs to be changed, or the design of the car seats should be reconsidered.


In summary, the Martindale Abrasion Testing Method is a widely accepted method for testing the abrasion resistance of car seat fabrics. It is a precise and reliable method that allows manufacturers to select the most durable and wear-resistant fabrics for their car seats, which can help ensure that car seat fabrics will maintain their appearance and performance over time.