ASTM F735

Introducing ASTM F735 – Industrial Physics  

ASTM F735 is an international ASTM guide for abrasion resistance testing of transparent plastics and coatings using the oscillating sand method and an oscillating abrasion tester. 

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. 

When you use plastic materials for transparencies, covers, or enclosures they’ll be subject to wiping, cleaning, or other types of rubbing actions that cause abrasion. The ASTM F735 abrasion test provides a means of estimating the resistance of such materials to this type and degree of abrasion. 

As stated, the ASTM F735 abrasion test method determines the resistance of transparent plastics. It’s also ideal for testing transparent coatings you find in windows or viewing ports to surface abrasion using oscillating sand. 

What is abrasion testing used for?  

Your products may look great once they’re sealed up and ready to go, but do you know how long that factory-fresh look will last? Wear and tear can take a toll and in order to keep products looking their best for longer, you need to understand how it fares when it rubs, grinds, or scrapes against other materials. Identifying weak areas in your products with our abrasion resistance testing devices will allow you to improve visual appeal and achieve a longer shelf life. 

Abrasion testing can be carried out on a huge number of materials, from plastics and polymers to metals or even paper and textiles. Scrapes and scuffs can have a massive impact on the visual appeal of a product and printed instructions that wipe away make consumers wary. 

Industrial Physics ASTM F735 abrasion testing equipment 

So, how can Industrial Physics improve your ASTM F735 abrasion resistance testing?  

TQC Sheen Taber Oscillating Abrasion Tester 

The Taber® Oscillating Abrasion Tester – Model 6160 is also known as an “oscillating sand tester”. Described in ASTM F735, The Taber® Oscillating Abrasion Tester is used to measure the resistance of a material to surface abrasion and scratching. Its primary application is for transparent materials and coatings in lenses and windows. However, it can also be used to evaluate materials such as organic coatings, plastics and metals. 

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 F735 abrasion testing and how we can help you with other aspects of your abrasion testing, then just get in touch!  

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