Taber 1700 User manual

Taber®Rotary Platform
Abrasion Tester
Model 1700 / 1750
Operating Instructions

Model 1700 / 1750 Rotary Platform Abraser 1Operating Instructions ver. 1.0
p/n 135505
ICONS
This instruction manual contains several notes and
warnings that should be observed carefully by the
user. The following icons denote these notes and
warnings:
Indicates a NOTE that warrants careful
attention. These notes may detail a step in the
procedure or point out a unique feature of the
instrument.
Indicates a WARNING that warrants careful
attention. These warnings inform the user of
any dangers that may cause injury to the
operator and/or dam the instrument. It is
imperative that you read and follow all
warnings carefully.
The Waste Electrical and Electronic
Equipment Directive (WEEE Directive) is the
European Community Directive on waste
electrical and electronic equipment which sets
collection, recycling and recovery targets for
all types of electrical goods.
Safety label –Shock hazard
Safety label –Caution
CE marking is a certification mark that
indicates conformity with health, safety, and
environmental protection standards for
products sold within the European Economic
Area (EEA).
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
READ ALL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS BEFORE ATTEMPTING
TO OPERATE.
Because of the design requirements, there are
potential hazards that an operator should be aware
of:
WARNING: The rotating motion of the specimen
holder creates an entanglement hazard. Do not
place body parts or objects in the area surrounding
the specimen holder and wheels as this may cause
injury and / or damage the equipment.
WARNING: To minimize airborne particulate
generated during testing, the Taber Abraser Vacuum
must be used unless performing wet tests.
WARNING: Lithium metal batteries may get hot,
explode or ignite and cause serious injury if exposed
to abusive conditions.
Below are general precautions that one should take
when operating the equipment:
Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry as they
can become entangled in the moving parts.
Do not attempt to handle or adjust the test
specimen while the instrument is being
operated.
While mounting / removing test specimens, the
instrument should be stopped and the abrading
arms and vacuum nozzle should be in the rest
position.
Fine particulate may become airborne during
this test. To prevent inhalation, a paper mask
should be worn.
Prolonged exposure to loud noise generated by
the vacuum can cause impairment or loss of
hearing. Wear a suitable protection device such
as earplugs to protect against damaging loud
noises.
Lithium metal battery safety precautions:
oDo not place the battery in fire or heat the
battery.
oDo not install the battery backwards so the
polarity is reversed.
oDo not connect the positive terminal and
negative terminal of the battery to each
other with any metal object (such as wire).
oDo not expose battery to water or salt
water, or allow the battery to get wet.
oDo not disassemble or modify the battery.

Model 1700 / 1750 Rotary Platform Abraser 2Operating Instructions ver. 1.0
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LIMITED WARRANTY
Taber Industries, (“Taber”) warrants that its products are
free from defects in material and workmanship. This
Limited Warranty shall be applicable for a period of one
year from the date of initial shipment of any product. The
terms of this Limited Warranty do not in any way extend
to parts of the product thereof which have a life, under
normal usage, inherently shorter than the one year
previously stated. Taber will, at its option, repair or
replace the defective product if Taber determines it is
defective within the warranty period and if it is returned,
freight prepaid, to Taber. Replacement parts will be
shipped F.O.B. Taber’s plant. Taber is not obligated to
furnish service under this Limited Warranty: a) to repair
damage resulting from attempts by personnel other than
Taber representatives to install, repair, or service the
product; b) to repair damage resulting from improper use
or from connecting the product to incompatible
equipment; or c) if personnel other than Taber
representatives, without Taber’s prior permission, modify
the product.
EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY SET FORTH HEREIN,
TABER MAKES NO OTHER REPRESENTATIONS,
PROMISES, GUARANTEES OR WARRANTIES,
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, STATUTORY OR OTHER-
WISE, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, AND
TABER EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES
NOT EXPRESSLY STATED HEREIN. IN THE EVENT
THE PRODUCT IS NOT FREE FROM DEFECTS AS
WARRANTED ABOVE, A CUSTOMER’S SOLE
REMEDY SHALL BE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT AS
PROVIDED ABOVE. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES
SHALL TABER BE LIABLE FOR ANY INJURIES,
DAMAGE TO OR REPLACEMENT OF OTHER
PRODUCTS OR PROPERTY, COSTS FOR
RECOVERING, REPROGRAMMING, OR REPRODUC-
ING ANY PROGRAM OR DATA USED WITH THE
PRODUCT.
EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY PROVIDED HEREIN, IN NO
EVENT SHALL TABER BE LIABLE TO ANY
CUSTOMER OR ANY THIRD PARTY FOR ANY
INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, SPECIAL
OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES OF ANY KIND OR NATURE
ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS WARRANTY
OR CONNECTED WITH OR RESULTING FROM THE
MANUFACTURE, SALE, DELIVERY, RESALE,
REPAIR, REPLACEMENT, OR USE OF ANY PRODUCT
OR THE FURNISHING OF ANY SERVICE OR PART
THEREOF, WHETHER SUCH LIABILITY IS BASED IN
CONTRACT, TORT, NEGLIGENCE, STRICT LIABILITY
OR OTHERWISE, EVEN IF WARNED OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF ANY SUCH DAMAGES.
TABER IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE LOSS OF
ANY DATA UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES AND ANY
SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES THAT MAY RESULT THEREOF.
CLAIMS FOR SHORTAGES
We use extreme care during packaging to eliminate
the possibility of error. If a shipping error is
discovered:
1. Carefully examine the packing materials and
ensure nothing was inadvertently overlooked when
the shipment was unpacked.
2. Notify the company you purchased the product
from and immediately report the shortage.
3. File any claim within 30 days from shipment.
CLAIMS FOR DAMAGES
Claims for loss or damage in transit should be made
promptly and directly to the transportation
company.
CONTENTS
Contents of the shipping container include the
following:
Model Model
1700 1750
Rotary Platform Abraser
Vacuum System (box 2) 1 1
Vacuum Y-Adaptor & Hose Kit N/A 1
Auxiliary Weights (500 g load) 2 4
Auxiliary Weights (1000 g load) 2 4
Specimen Holder (SH-125)* 1 2
Hold Down Ring (SH-101)* 1 2
Hand Brush (S-12) 1 1
Torx T25 Screwdriver 1 1
Power Cord Kit 115/230 VAC 1 1
Operating Instructions 1 1
*Mounted on the Abraser

Model 1700 / 1750 Rotary Platform Abraser 3Operating Instructions ver. 1.0
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INTRODUCTION
The Model 1700 and 1750 Taber Rotary Platform
Abrasers are durable, precision built test
instruments designed to evaluate the resistance of
surfaces to rubbing abrasion. The field of
application is varied and includes tests of solid
materials, coated surfaces (paint, lacquer,
electroplate, powder coat), plastics, textiles
(ranging from sheer silks to heavy upholstery),
metals, leather, rubber, linoleum, plus many others.
Commonly referred to as the “Taber test”, the Taber
Abraser is a simple, effective means to determine a
material’s resistance to abrasion. The characteristic
rub-wear action is produced by the contact of a test
sample turning on a vertical axis, against the sliding
rotation of two abrading wheels. The wheels are
driven by the sample in opposite directions about a
horizontal axis displaced tangentially from the axis
of the sample. One abrading wheel rubs the
specimen outward toward the periphery and the
other, inward toward the center. The resulting
abrasion marks form a pattern of crossed arcs over
an area of approximately 30 cm2.
An important feature of the Taber Abraser is that
the wheels traverse a complete circle on the
specimen surface, revealing abrasion resistance at
all angles relative to the weave or grain of the
material.
It is important to recognize there may be several
factors that contribute to wear performance of
materials in actual use. Before predictions can be
drawn from laboratory tests, actual end-use trials
should be conducted. This helps establish the
relationship between the laboratory abrasion test
and actual wear in the intended end-use. The
consideration of additional factors is often
necessary in the calculation of predicted durability
from specific abrasion data. While “abrasion
resistance” (often stated in terms of the number of
cycles to produce a specified degree or amount of
abrasion) and “durability” (defined as the ability to
withstand deterioration or wearing out in use,
including the effects of abrasion) are frequently
related, the relationship typically varies with
different end uses.
Accelerated abrasion tests compress the life span
of a product into a much shorter duration in a
controlled and monitored environment. While the
test may not represent the actual conditions
materials are exposed to, lab tests can duplicate
many real world conditions, making it much easier
to reproduce the test. In addition, there is greater
flexibility with the methodology, costs are
significantly less, and you are able to test more
samples.

Model 1700 / 1750 Rotary Platform Abraser 4Operating Instructions ver. 1.0
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INSTRUMENT SET-UP
1. Place the Abraser unit on a flat, level surface.
2. Install the correct fuses into the fuse holder.
115V –two (2) T10A, 5 x 20mm fuses (#129735)
230V –two (2) T5A, 5 x 20mm fuses (#128561)
3. Place the vacuum unit in a ventilated area near
the Abraser. Remove the motor housing and
install the vacuum cartridge filter and filter bag.
Reinstall the motor housing.
4. Connect the flexible suction hose to the
vacuum unit and Abraser. A “Y-Adaptor” is
used to split the vacuum hose for the Model
1750 Dual Abraser.
5. Plug the male connector of the vacuum power
cord into the appropriate receptacle at the rear
of the Abraser. When operating at 115V, a
patch cord is used to connect the vacuum unit
to the Abraser.
6. Plug the female connector of the Abraser power
cord into the power inlet located on the rear of
the instrument. Connect the instrument to a
115V/60 Hz or 230V/50 Hz circuit.
7. Using the ON / OFF power switch located on
the back of the instrument immediately above
the cord, turn the instrument on. The instrument
is now ready to operate.
WARNING: Do not place the vacuum in a closed
cabinet without adequate ventilation. Failure to
provide sufficient airflow may cause the motor to
overheat, resulting in damage to the vacuum.
WARNING: Failure to connect the Rotary Platform
Abrasion Tester to a surge protector or surge
suppressor may result in damage to the
instrument’s electronic components.
NOTE: To remove the fuse holder, slide it out of the
power switch. A small screwdriver may be used to assist
in the removal.
NOTE: Two power cords (NEMA Type 5-15P and
“Schuko”) are provided for your convenience. Discard the
power cord not used.

Model 1700 / 1750 Rotary Platform Abraser 5Operating Instructions ver. 1.0
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SETTING PREFERENCES
The Model 1700 / 1750 Abraser allows you to set
preferences on how information is displayed. Press
the OPTIONS button, and then select the desired
option. After making your selection, press OK.
NOTE: Options shown below in bold text are factory
default settings.
Language: English,Mandarin, Japanese, Spanish,
French, German, or Dutch
Date Format: DD/MM/YYYY or MM/DD/YYYY
Time Format: 12 Hour or 24 Hour
Sleep Mode: Programmable time (e.g. 1 Hour) or Off
Counter: Ascending or Descending
Separator: Comma or Period
Language and Preferences

Model 1700 / 1750 Rotary Platform Abraser 6Operating Instructions ver. 1.0
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Time and Date
SETTING TEST PARAMETERS
The Model 1700 / 1750 Abraser allows you easily
change test parameters. When the instrument is not
operating, press the appropriate button and use the
dial or odometer to set the value. After making your
selection, press OK.
Test Cycles
The Abraser can be preset to any number of test
cycles below the maximum value of 50,000. The
total cycle count shown on the display screen
defaults to the test duration value that was last
entered.

Model 1700 / 1750 Rotary Platform Abraser 7Operating Instructions ver. 1.0
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To increase (or decrease) test duration after the
original cycles have been entered, the number of
specimen holder revolutions must be a value
greater than the completed cycles. Enter the new
value then press OK.
The Abraser specimen holder will stop
automatically at the selected number of test cycles.
For the Model 1750, both specimen holders can be
preset to different values depending on the nature
of the test. Prior to entering a new value for the test
cycles, ensure the touchscreen is shown for the
correct specimen holder. To change between the
left or right, press the arrow button on the side of
the display screen or press the toggle switch at the
top status bar. LEFT or RIGHT will be shown
indicating which specimen holder is being
displayed. The ongoing cycle count for each will be
presented in the corresponding readout.
NOTE: An abrasion cycle, or test cycle, is defined as one
complete revolution of the specimen in contact with the
abrading wheels.
Speed
The speed of the Rotary Platform Abrasion Tester
can be selected as 60 rpm or 72 rpm. The tester will
store the speed that was last selected in memory
and use this as a default until it is changed.
NOTE: The specimen holders for the Model 1750 Dual
Abraser can be set to rotate at different speeds.

Model 1700 / 1750 Rotary Platform Abraser 8Operating Instructions ver. 1.0
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Vacuum Level
Model 1700 and 1750 Rotary Platform Abraser offer
variable vacuum control, calibrated to values of 50
–100%. Changing the vacuum level adjusts the
speed of the vacuum unit motor and the
corresponding vacuum suction for accurate
standardization and control of test procedures.
WARNING: Do not use the vacuum for wet tests.
To minimize risk of shock, disconnect the electrical
cord to the vacuum unit.
NOTE: When testing flexible materials, the vacuum level
should be set high enough to remove the abraded wear
debris, but not lift the specimen.
Pause Interval
The Pause Interval will automatically stop the test
at a set interval. This feature is useful to refresh the
abradant and / or inspect the test specimen.

Model 1700 / 1750 Rotary Platform Abraser 9Operating Instructions ver. 1.0
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Reface Cycle
The Reface Mode allows you to reface the wheels
without adding test cycles to the completed
(remaining) test cycle count. This convenient
feature is ideal for any test that requires the
abradant to be refreshed at intervals during the test.
NOTE: Do not exceed 50 resurfacing cycles on an S-11
refacing disc. If more than 50 cycles are required to
refresh the wheels, use additional refacing discs.
Vacuum Only
The VACUUM ONLY key allows you to operate the
vacuum unit without the Abraser. This is useful
when cleaning the surrounding work area or when
operating the Wheel Refacer.
NOTE: When the vacuum is operating, a red “X” appears
over the vacuum icon. Pressing this button will stop the
vacuum.

Model 1700 / 1750 Rotary Platform Abraser 10 Operating Instructions ver. 1.0
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Display Option
The Rotary Platform Abrasion tester can be
programmed to show “Cycles” or “Time”.
Both “Cycles” and “Time” can be displayed as
ascending (completed Cycles/Time) or descending
(remaining Cycles/Time).

Model 1700 / 1750 Rotary Platform Abraser 11 Operating Instructions ver. 1.0
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INSTRUMENT PREPARATION
Taber Abrading Wheels
Selecting Wheels –Genuine Taber abrasive
wheels are available in a variety of standardized
formulations. The choice of which abrasive wheel to
use is dependent on the material that is being
evaluated. Many test methods specify which
Genuine Taber abrasive wheel should be used. If
you are not following an established test method,
trial and error is suggested to help determine the
appropriate abrasive wheel.
It is often the case that materials degrade faster
with the more demanding conditions of accelerated
testing. As a basic rule of thumb, a minimum
number of test cycles should be completed before
the end point occurs (i.e. 300 cycles). Otherwise,
the abrasive wheel may be too aggressive or the
load is too great.
For additional information, contact Taber or an
authorized distributor.
Mounting Wheels –Model 1700 / 1750 features
the Quick Release Mounting Hub. An expanding
collet hub design with push-button operation
permits quick wheel mounting. A spring loaded,
beveled retaining nut provides a positive locking
force on the hub retaining lip making certain the
wheels remain securely fastened until disengaged.
To mount a wheel, press the push button located at
the end of the auxiliary weight mount. This will
release the beveled retaining nut enabling the collet
to contract. With the label facing toward the center
of the specimen holder, carefully slide the wheel all
the way onto the mounting hub. Release the push
button. The hub retaining lip will secure the wheel
until it is disengaged.
Genuine Taber abrading wheels are supplied in
pairs. A close inspection of the wheel labels will
show that one is marked “Left Hand”, while the
other is “Right Hand”. The wheel labels should be
mounted facing inward (toward each other).
NOTE: H-18 and H-22 Calibrade wheels have a
tendency to wear the Quick Release Collets Wheel
collets. Collets should be routinely replaced when they no
longer securethe wheels or excessive play is noted. Order
Quick Release Wheel / Hub Collet Replacement Kit
(#133338).
NOTE: Taber Industries offers a Wheel / Hub Kit with a
Locking Nut that can be used in place of the Quick
Release Wheel / Hub Kit. This kit is suggested for
companies that perform a significant number of tests with
the H-18 or H-22 Calibrade wheels. Order Wheel / Hub Kit
with Locking Nut (#135934).
NOTE: Before preparing the wheels for testing, check
their condition and expiration date (if applicable). Shelf life
is dependent on proper storage conditions (temperature
23° C ± 2° C, relative humidity 50% ± 5%). When not in
use, store abrading wheels in their original container.
NOTE: Periodic cleaning of themounting hub and flange
with the S-12 brush is recommended to prevent the
accumulation of particles and other debris.
Wheel Loading (Auxiliary Weights)
Auxiliary weights can be attached to the pivoted
arms to increase the force the wheel is pressed
against the specimen, exclusive of the mass of the
wheel itself. In addition to the mass of the abrading
arm, auxiliary weights are included to provide
standard wheel loads of 500 or 1000 grams.
To operate with a load of 250 gram, no
additional weights are used.

Model 1700 / 1750 Rotary Platform Abraser 12 Operating Instructions ver. 1.0
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To operate with a load of 500 gram, slide the
auxiliary weights marked 500 g onto the left and
right auxiliary weight mounts.
To operate with a load of 1000 gram, slide the
auxiliary weights marked 1000 g onto the left
and right auxiliary weight mounts.
NOTE: For simplicity sake, each auxiliary weight is
marked with thetotal load that will be exerted on the wheel
and is the combined total of the weight and the abrading
arm. The weights marked 500 g are actually 250 grams.
Likewise, the weights marked 1000 g are 750 grams.
NOTE: Wheel load references are per arm (not
combined). The loadthat is specified in most test methods
does not include the mass of the wheel.
NOTE: An optional counterweight kit is available when
less than 250 g load is required.
Vacuum System
Models 1700 / 1750 include a Taber vacuum unit
that includes a heavy-duty motor and life-lubricated
sealed bearings. When the vacuum power
connection is plugged into the rear of the abraser
housing, the vacuum will automatically turn on
when a test commences and shut off at the end of
the programmed test cycles. A flexible rubber
suction hose connects it to the Abraser.
Vacuum Nozzle Height Adjustment –To adjust
the gap between the vacuum nozzle and test
specimen, rotate the precision adjustment knob.
Each full rotation of the knob represents a 1 mm
height adjustment. All adjustments should be made
after the specimen has been mounted.
WARNING: When testing flexible materials, ensure
the suction from the vacuum nozzle does not lift the
specimen. Any contact between the specimen and
vacuum nozzle during the test, will cause additional
wear that may influence the test results.

Model 1700 / 1750 Rotary Platform Abraser 13 Operating Instructions ver. 1.0
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NOTE: A gap of 3 mm has been found to be effective on
most materials.
NOTE: To facilitate setting the nozzle gap, a shim may
be inserted between the vacuum nozzle and specimen.
Take care not to damage the specimen surface.
Vacuum Level –The vacuum suction level should
be set high enough to remove debris from the
specimen surface, but not lift flexible samples. A
visual inspection of the wear path can usually
indicate if debris is adhering to the specimen
surface and the vacuum level (or vacuum nozzle
height) needs to be adjusted. For test control and
standardization of vacuum suction, the vacuum
level is calibrated to values of 50 –100%.
NOTE: The amount of vacuum suction is influenced by
the type of material being tested and height of the nozzle
above the specimen surface.
Vacuum Nozzle Inserts –The Model 1700 / 1750
includes replaceable vacuum nozzle inserts (front
nozzle is short, rear nozzle is long). The nominal 8
mm are standard for most tests. The optional 11
mm nozzle inserts are typically required for
materials that are evaluated using a change in haze
(e.g. ASTM D1044).
REFACING WHEELS
Taber abrasive wheels possess properties that
cause the working faces to disintegrate slowly as
they are used, continually exposing fresh abrasive
grains to the specimen being tested. However,
depending on the material being evaluated, debris
from the test specimen may clog or adhere to the
wheel surface. If this occurs, the wheels must be
cleaned (refaced) at regularly defined intervals. Do
not confuse coloring of the wheels with “clogging”
as this may simply be due to the wheel faces
becoming coated with fine abrading dust, a
condition that must be expected.
It is good practice to standardize the abradant prior
to each test. Failure to reface the wheel surfaces,
may introduce variation into the test results.
NOTE: Wear life of Taber abrasive wheels varies
depending on test load, and the surface texture / frictional
characteristics of the material being tested. Under
ordinary conditions, a wheel set should last from 10,000
to 50,000 wear cycles. Abnormally short wheel life may
indicate the useof the wrong wheel, load, or procedure for
the material tested, or too frequent refacing.
NOTE: Wheels can be used until they are worn down to
their minimum diameter of 44.4 mm as indicated by the
wheel label.
Refacing Resilient Wheels (Calibrase)
The S-11 Refacing Disc are used to resurface all
Calibrase wheels with the exception of CS-10F
when they are used for evaluating change in haze
for transparent materials. In this case, CS-10F
wheels are refaced using the ST-11 Refacing
Stone.
1. Mount the wheels to the abraser.
2. Mount an S-11 Refacing Disc (or ST-11
Refacing Stone) on the SH-125 specimen
holder. Use the clamp plate and nut, and hold-
down ring to secure the S-11. The clamp plate
and clamp ring are not required for the ST-11
refacing stone.
3. Mount the auxiliary weights for the load that will
be used for testing.
4. Lower the abrading wheels onto the refacing
medium.
5. Adjust the vacuum pick-up nozzle height to
within 3 –6 mm of the refacing disc. See note
on page 14 for CS-10F wheels.
6. Program the appropriate number of cycles
according to Table 1 (or as specified) and
subject the wheels to refacing.

Model 1700 / 1750 Rotary Platform Abraser 14 Operating Instructions ver. 1.0
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TABLE 1
Wheel Status
Refacing Cycles
New
2 refacings of 50 cycles
Used (previous test
<1,000 cycles)
25 cycles
Used (previous test
>1,000 cycles)
50 cycles
* During Test
25 cycles
The below screen shot shows a test with a PAUSE
INTERVAL set for 200 cycles. To resurface the
wheels, remove the specimen and mount the
appropriate refacing medium (adjust vacuum
nozzle if necessary). Press the Reface button to
commence refacing. Once the reface is complete,
remove the refacing medium and mount the test
specimen. Select CONTINUE to continue testing or
REFACE to perform a second refacing.
NOTE: The S-11 refacing disc is used only once for a
maximum of 50 cycles. Never reface wheels with a used
S-11 refacing disc. Otherwise, the wear coefficient of the
wheel faces may change and inject an error in the test
results.
NOTE: Wheels that have not been used for a long period
of time may require two break-in refacings like a new set
of wheels.
NOTE: When refacing CS-10F wheels, adjust the
vacuum pick-up nozzle to 0.80 mm –1.60 mm above the
ST-11 refacing stone.
NOTE: The useful life of the ST-11 refacing disc is 7,500
cycles per side (approximately 300 refacings per side).
NOTE: Refacing cycles are not added to the cumulative
number of test cycles.

Model 1700 / 1750 Rotary Platform Abraser 15 Operating Instructions ver. 1.0
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Refacing Vitrified Wheels (Calibrade)
All Calibrade wheels are diamond trued at the
factory and may be used continuously without
further refacing until the abrading surfaces show
indications of becoming:
Worn out of round –Occasionally, wheels
become out of round due to an uneven surface
of the test specimen or other reasons. The
normal abrading surface of the wheels should
be concentric with the hub.
Crowned –The working surfaces of wheels
that are “crowned” appear slightly rounded. To
check for this condition, place a straight edge
on the two wheels. The straight edge should be
in contact with the full width of the wheels.
Clogged –“Clogged” wheels can be identified
as adhesive buildup of wear debris on the
working faces of the wheels and should not be
confused with the discoloration caused by
abrading dust.
Refacing is also advised when starting a series of
comparative tests or changing to an entirely
different material. In some instances, where there
is a tendency for the working surfaces of the wheels
to pick up excess material, it may be desirable to
reface the wheels before testing each specimen.
To properly reface Calibrade wheels, a Taber
Wheel Refacer must be used. This instrument
utilizes a diamond tool that is traversed across the
working surface to precision dress the abrading
wheels.
NOTE: Refacing Calibrade wheels may leave a sharp
edge that may sever threads when testing textile fabrics.
It is acceptable to remove this sharp edge prior to testing.
To do so, cut a small strip from an S-11 refacing disc and
hold it lightly against the outer edge of each wheel.
Manually turn the nut to rotate the motor shaft. Reverse
the wheels on the arbor and round the opposite corners.
Only the extreme sharpness of the edges should be
removed. A radius of 0.4 mm is sufficient.
SPECIMEN PREPARATION
As you start testing, use of these guidelines should
assist in developing a test procedure that will yield
reproducible test results, accurate within the
variations of quality inherent in the material itself.
The suggested number of test specimens from
each laboratory sampling unit is a minimum of
three (3).
All specimens should be labeled to maintain
specimen identity.
Specimen Size
Rigid Materials –Rigid specimens are often cut
from a larger sheet utilizing an appropriate cutting
method. Specimens should be approximately 100
mm square with surfaces plane and parallel. A
6.5mm diameter hole must be drilled in the center
of the specimen to secure it to the standard
specimen holder (SH-125). The material thickness
that can be evaluated with the Taber Abraser
without additional accessories, is 6.5 mm or less.
NOTE: The width of the wear path is 12.7 mm, and
located 31.75 mm from the center of the specimen.
NOTE: Optional “Drive Pin” specimen holder (SH-19) is
available for testing rigid materials that are difficult to drill
a center hole in.
NOTE: Optional accessories are available to test
specimen thickness greater than 6.5 mm. Materials
greater than 6.5 mm but less than 12.7 mm can be
evaluated using the S-21 Extension Nut. The Arm Height
Extension modification will permit testing up to 40 mm in
thickness.
Flexible Materials –Flexible specimens are
typically circular and require the use of the hold-
down ring. A 130 mm - 135 mm diameter specimen
is required so the hold-down ring will grip the
overlapped material. If a mounting card is used, the
specimen should be approximately 108 mm in
diameter.

Model 1700 / 1750 Rotary Platform Abraser 16 Operating Instructions ver. 1.0
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Most flexible materials can be cut to size using the
Model 5000 –Taber Sample Cutter. Manually
operated, this bench top cutter uses an industrial
cutting blade to prepare a 107 mm diameter
specimen. A punch lever evenly transfers force
through a spring-loaded clutch to punch a 6.5 mm
center hole.
When it is desired to use abrasion test samples for
tests of other destructive agents such as
laundering, dry cleaning, and light fastness, it is
recommended the specimens be cut square rather
than round. The larger area of the square provides
for shrinkage in subsequent tests and permits
handling without touching the area to be abraded.
For textile materials, fold the sample twice and use
scissors to cut a small portion of the resulting corner
for the center hole.
NOTE: To mount textiles or other flexible specimens,
place the test specimen on the holder with the side to be
abraded facing up. Lightly secure the clamp plate and nut
in place. Adjust the hold-down ring so it is a snug fit, and
place it half way on the specimen holder. Draw the
specimen taut over the specimen holder by pulling on
corners and edges. Tighten the clamp ring further, and
push the ring all the way down over the edge of the holder,
thus putting tension on the specimen as it is secured on
holder. Finish tightening the clamp plate and nut, and
finally tighten the hold-down ring. Avoid tightening to
excess so as not to wrinkle the specimen. Trim off any
excess material around the edges.
WARNING: To prevent damage to the instrument,
avoid excess specimen material that extends
beyond the specimen hold-down ring and will rub
on the abraser housing. Trim excess material or
use tape to secure to the specimen holder. Taber
offers Model SH-12 “Tall” Specimen Holder
(#135920) to accommodate 135 mm diameter
specimens.
NOTE: To prevent the vacuum from lifting the specimen,
it is advised to use the hold-down ring.
NOTE: The SH-101 hold-down ring will accommodate
flexible materials up to 0.8 mm thick. The optional SH-102
hold-down ring will accommodate flexible materials up to
1.6 mm thick.
NOTE: Optional Textile Specimen Holder (SH-15) has a
raised wear track to give the fabric extra tension when the
hold-down ring is drawn down over the edge of the holder
and the clamp plate is secured
NOTE: To prevent stretching or wrinklingof thespecimen
during testing, flexible materials can be mounted to the S-
36 or S-36-1 Mounting Card.
Specimen Cleaning
The specimen surface must be free from
fingerprints or other contaminants. If necessary,
use an appropriate cleaning method for the material
being tested.
Specimen Conditioning
Prior to testing, it is recommended that specimens
be conditioned for at least 24 hours in a standard
laboratory atmosphere of 23 °C ± 2 °C (73.4 °F ±
3.6 °F) with 50 ± 5% relative humidity. For materials
that are susceptible to environmental influences,
tests should be conducted in the same test
atmosphere.

Model 1700 / 1750 Rotary Platform Abraser 17 Operating Instructions ver. 1.0
p/n 135505
TEST PROCEDURE
As you start your testing, use of these guidelines
should assist you in developing a test procedure
that will yield reproducible test results, accurate
within the variations of quality inherent in the
material itself.
Establishing a Test Procedure
The purpose of this section is to outline all the
elements of a typical test procedure from analysis
of the testing problem to final evaluation of results.
Knowledge of the mere mechanics of testing, the
preparation and mounting of specimens, and the
setup and operation of the Abraser is presumed.
To aid in the establishment of a test procedure, the
following recommendations are offered. It is
important to recognize that these recommendations
may not apply to all variations of materials and that
modifications may be required in performing a
practical abrasion test. They should not be
construed as fixed test specifications.
Analyze Test Problem –The value of the Taber
Abraser in research and quality control programs
depends to a considerable extent on the operator’s
knowledge of the test problem; the service
requirements and the desired wear characteristics
of the material examined. Analyzing this problem
before embarking on a test series may save time
and material. As nearly as possible, the test should
reproduce the wear experience of the specimen in
actual use.
Control Test Environment –Both heat and
moisture may affect the abrasion resistance of most
materials, particularly organic materials. Therefore,
an environmentally controlled test room is strongly
recommended where reproducible precision results
are required. Abrasion research projects are
normally carried out in an atmosphere maintained
at 23 °C ± 2 °C (73.4 °F ± 3.6 °F) with 50 ± 5%
relative humidity. For materials that are susceptible
to humidity, samples should be conditioned in the
test atmosphere for at least 24 hours –organic
materials preferably for 48 hours or more. When
research is conducted to determine wear life under
changing atmospheric conditions, as in automobile
and aircraft materials, the atmosphere of the
laboratory may be controlled accordingly.
NOTE: If an environmentally controlled test laboratory is
not available, test specimens should be conditioned and
tested with a minimum lapse of time.
NOTE: When it is necessary to interrupt a test of organic
material for several hours, or overnight, the sample should
be discarded and a new test begun. In the course of a few
hours the weight of a sample may change by moisture
absorption or for other unexplained reasons.
Determine Test Procedure –Standard test
procedures for a number of materials have been
established and, in the interest of uniformity and the
ready exchange of information, are very generally
accepted. To ensure that test results will be
comparable, the procedure described should be
followed exactly.
In the absence of a standard specification, the
technician must work out his or her own test
procedure. Choice of abrading wheels, load
weights, method of mounting the sample, duration
of test, and other details may best be decided by
preliminary testing of the specimen material.
Begin by estimating the nature and degree of wear
that the specimen would receive in actual service.
Select an abrasive wheel that will most nearly
reproduce this wear. Under ordinary conditions a
load and wheel combination should run on a
specimen a minimum of 300 cycles before the end
point occurs, otherwise the test may be too harsh.
In certain instances there may be exceptions to this
rule since there are many varieties of material that
can be tested with the Abraser.
When setting up a test procedure, always keep in
mind to avoid wearing the material too fast as this
will result in ripping and tearing action.
Record Test Procedure –It is essential that
careful record of every phase of the test procedure
be kept for purposes of comparison. This will also
enable others to duplicate the test at a later date.
Select Evaluation Method –Test results are
commonly expressed as a wear factor or numerical
abrasion index of the test specimen. The most
common methods for calculating this index are by
measuring a visual or physical change. For
additional information see page 19.

Model 1700 / 1750 Rotary Platform Abraser 18 Operating Instructions ver. 1.0
p/n 135505
The following steps are intended to assist in
establishing a test procedure for conducting wear
tests of rigid or flexible materials.
1. Mount the selected wheels on their respective
flanged holders.
IMPORTANT: Prior to testing, ensure the wheels
have been resurfaced, if necessary.
2. Measure and record specific parameters of the
unabraded test specimen, if necessary.
3. Secure specimen to Abraser specimen holder.
4. Select and mount the auxiliary weights, if
necessary.
5. Adjust the vacuum nozzle gap.
6. Using the Abraser touchscreen, enter the
appropriate test parameters then press the
“OK” button.
7. Lower the abrading heads onto the surface of
the test specimen.
8. Press START button on Abraser keypad to
commence testing.
9. To interrupt a test, press the PAUSE button. To
stop or cancel a test, press the STOP button.
NOTE: If the STOP button is pressed before the
programmed number of cycles is reached, a screen
prompt will ask if you are sure. If you wish to continue
testing, select NO. Selecting YES will abort the test.