Rubbing Fastness Testers

What is a rubbing fastness tester?

A rubbing fastness tester, also known as a crockmeter, is professional testing equipment widely used in the textile industry. Its main function is to test the adhesion strength of dyes to fabrics under dry and wet friction conditions, known as "color fastness to friction". This test can effectively evaluate the color durability of fabrics in daily use, helping to improve product quality standards.

What is the working principle of the rubbing fastness tester?

Friction color fastness test is a method of simulating the friction scenario generated during actual wearing or use by repeatedly rubbing a standard friction white cloth against the tested sample under certain pressure and frequency. After the test is completed, observe whether there is staining transfer on the white cloth and compare the ratings using a gray card. It is usually divided into 5 levels, with 5 indicating no staining transfer and 1 indicating severe staining transfer.

What does the rubbing fastness tester test for?

• Dry rubbing color fastness test: Use dry rubbing cloth for testing to evaluate the dye stability of the fabric in a dry state.
• Wet rubbing color fastness test: Use pre wetted friction cloth for testing, which is closer to the actual washing and wet rubbing situation in use.
• Setting of reciprocating friction times: Users can set the number of reciprocating friction times according to standard requirements (such as 10 times, 20 times, etc.).
• Adjustable weight: By adjusting the loading pressure, it can better adapt to the testing needs of different fabrics.

What industries does the rubbing fastness tester apply to?

1. Textile and clothing manufacturing industry: testing the color fastness performance of fabrics during wearing.
2. Printing and dyeing enterprises: evaluate the impact of printing and dyeing processes on color fastness.
3. Quality inspection agencies and laboratories conduct quality testing and standardized analysis.
4. Automotive and Home Furnishing Industry: Testing the Friction Fastness of Materials such as Leather and Interior Fabrics.

What are the characteristics of the SISCO rubbing fastness testers? 

• Compact structure and easy operation: suitable for daily laboratory operations, with standardized operating procedures.
• Easy replacement of friction head: convenient to adapt to different sample requirements.
• High precision counter: ensures stable testing process and traceable data.
• Suitable for multiple sample sizes: from clothing fabrics to automotive interior fabrics, coated fabrics, etc., can be tested.

How to use a rubbing fastness tester?

• 1. Prepare the Test Sample Properly

     • Cut the leather to the required size and condition it in a standard environment (usually 20±2°C and 65±4% RH) for at least 24 hours before testing.

     • Make sure the leather surface is clean and free from dust, oil, or any coatings that may affect test results.

  2. Choose the Right Test Cloth

     • Use standard rubbing cloth (often white cotton) for consistent and reliable results.

     • Replace the rubbing cloth for each test to avoid cross-contamination.

  3. Dry vs. Wet Rubbing

     • For wet testing, dampen the rubbing cloth with distilled water (or a specified solution), but avoid over-soaking.

     • Always perform both dry and wet rubbing tests if required by the standard.

  4. Set Correct Rubbing Stroke and Load

     • Ensure the machine is set to the appropriate rubbing cycles (usually 10 or 20 cycles) and pressure (commonly 500g).

     • Do not exceed the standard limits, as excessive rubbing may lead to unrealistic results.

  5. Inspect Transfer Carefully

     • After rubbing, evaluate the staining on the white cloth using the gray scale for staining.

     • Use a consistent light source (such as D65 daylight) and viewing conditions for accurate assessment.

  6. Routine Calibration and Maintenance

     • Regularly check and calibrate the load weight and stroke length.

     • Clean the equipment after every use to avoid residue build-up which can affect test accuracy.

  7. Follow Relevant Standards

     • Refer to standards like ISO 11640, ASTM D5053, or GB/T 3920 depending on your industry requirement.

     • Ensure your tester matches the standard you are testing for.

  8. Safety First

     • Although it's a simple testing device, ensure moving parts are secure and that operators avoid loose clothing or jewelry during use.