ASTM D968

Introducing ASTM D968 – Industrial Physics

ASTM D968 is an ASTM international standard for measuring the abrasion resistance of organic coatings by a falling abrasive. 

The American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) is one of the most influential standard bodies in existence. Established in 1898, ASTM international exists to develop standardized test methods, specifications, practices, guides, classification, and terminology across a range of subject areas. 

The ASTM D698 abrasion resistance testing methods help you to measure the resistance of organic coatings to abrasion produced by an abrasive falling onto coatings applied to a plane rigid surface. The type of surface used is typically a metal or glass panel. 

What’s involved in silica sand abrasion testing?

Silica sand produces a slower rate of abrasion for organic coatings than you get from silicon carbide. For some types of coatings, it may also provide greater differentiation. 

The abrasion resistance scales produced by the two ASTM D968 methods differ, but they provide approximately the same rankings of coatings for abrasion resistance. 

Each of these ASTM methods is useful for rating the abrasion resistance of specific types of coatings. ASTM D968 Method A (falling sand) has been used for rating floor coatings while ASTM D968 Method B (falling silicon carbide) has been used for rating coatings for ship decks. 

Our ASTM D968 abrasion testing equipment

So, how can Industrial Physics improve your ASTM D968 sand abrasion testing?  

TQC Sheen Falling Sand Abrasion Tester
Our falling sand abrasion tester is used to measure the abrasion resistance of paint, lacquers and other organic coatings. Based on a design described in ASTM D968 and other internationally recognized test standards, the falling sand abrasion tester consists of an 8″ diameter sand reservoir which includes a 60° taper funnel. 

Need abrasion testing solutions? Get in touch

We’ve been making abrasion testers for years and we like to share our knowledge. Across the knowledgebase section of our website we publish lots of blogs on related subjects.  

You could start with this blog on abrasion testing to ASTM standards, or you could try this one on protecting your coating performance with scratch hardness testing. 

If you have any questions about ASTM D968 sand abrasion testing and how we can help you with other aspects of your metal or glass testing, then just get in touch!
Your global test and measurement partner for ASTM D968