Abrasion - a key quality factor
What is abrasion?
Abrasion refers to the loss of material on the surface of a component due to mechanical friction in contact with other bodies, e.g. when sliding or rolling. In rubber and plastics technology, abrasion resistance is a key quality factor. Especially with Moulded rubber parts and Silicone moulded parts, e.g. the dynamically loaded components, Seals, Rollers, spring elements and Sealing lips this quality factor is decisive.
What factors influence abrasion?
Abrasion is caused by:
- Friction between two moving surfaces
- Contact with rough or abrasive materials
- Permanent oscillation or vibration -> internal abrasion leads to mechanical damage over time
Various rubber materials and composite parts such as, for example,. Metal Composite Parts show different abrasion resistance depending on the formulation and operating conditions. Therefore, the selection of the right Rubber raw material elementary for the long-term function of the corresponding component.
What test methods are there?
Abrasion resistance is determined by standardised tests, e.g:
- DIN ISO 4649: Drum/roller abrasion
- Taber abrasion / Akron abrasion test: one or two grinding discs roll on a rotating sample
- the grinding loss is given in mm³ as volume loss per unit of time
The results help in the selection of materials for highly stressed components.
