ISO 12945-2: Test Method for Surface Pilling Using the Martindale Abrasion Tester-gester-instruments.com

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ISO 12945-2: Test Method for Surface Pilling Using the Martindale Abrasion Tester September 04 , 2025

ISO 12945-2: Test Method for Surface Pilling Using the Martindale Abrasion Tester

Pills are formed when fibers on a fabric surface migrate out and become entangled during wear. Such surface deterioration is generally undesirable, but consumer tolerance for a given pilling level depends on the garment type and fabric end-use.

Introducing the ISO 12945-2:2020, a comprehensive standard that provides a detailed methodology for determining the propensity of fabrics to surface pilling, fuzzing, or matting using the Modified Martindale method.

iso 12945-2 Martindale Abrasion Tester

Benefits of Using the Modified Martindale Method

The Modified Martindale method is a well-established technique for evaluating the surface characteristics of textiles. It simulates the natural wear and tear that fabrics experience during use, providing a realistic assessment of their durability. This method is particularly effective in identifying issues related to:

Pilling: The formation of small, unsightly balls of fiber on the fabric surface.
Fuzzing: The development of a fuzzy texture that can detract from the fabric's appearance.
Matting: The flattening of fibers that can lead to a loss of texture and visual appeal.

Martindale Abrasion Test Procedure

All tests shall be conducted under standard environmental conditions.

This test method is not applicable to fabrics exceeding 3mm in thickness, as the fabric gripper cannot secure such specimens adequately.

Test specimens may be evaluated either before or after washing. It is recommended that fabrics be washed or dry-cleaned prior to testing; if necessary, both washing and dry-cleaning may be performed. While pre-treatment is advisable, the condition of test specimens shall be mutually agreed upon by both parties beforehand.

Specimen

The specimen diameter within the specimen holder shall be 140(0,+5) mm. Where necessary, to prevent wrinkling caused by loose fibres/yarns interfering with the friction area, the specimen edges may be secured (e.g. by gluing and taping). Samples on the pilling table may be circular with a diameter of 140(0,+5) mm or square with a side length of (150±2) mm.

A minimum of three sets of specimens are required, each comprising two specimens: one in the specimen fixture and one on the pilling table as the abrasive. If a wool fabric abrasive is used on the pilling table, at least three specimens must be tested. Should more than three specimens be tested, an odd number of specimens shall be selected. Additional specimens may be taken for comparative grading.

Martindale Abrasion and Pilling Tester

The martindale abrasion and pilling tester is used to determine the abrasion and pilling resistance of all kinds of textile structures. Samples are rubbed against known abrade at low pressures and in continuously changing directions and the amount of abrasion or pilling is compared against standard parameters.

The upgraded Martindale abrasion and pilling tester features several improvements. It is driven by a dual servo system, which enhances its performance and accuracy. The tester generates a standard Lissajous figure motion trajectory.

The martindale pilling tester iso 12945-2 is equipped with six test modes to cater to various testing requirements. These modes include abrasion 60×60, pilling 24×24, 60-X, 60-Y, 24-X, and 24-Y. Switching between different modes is effortless, requiring only a single click without the need for hardware conversion operations.

Rating
Position the 38 mm diameter circular specimen squarely onto double-sided adhesive tape within the rating box. Under appropriate lighting conditions, assess the grade of each specimen's front surface by comparing it to suitable standard fabrics or photographs. View the specimens from a 45° downward angle during grading.

Grade	State Description
5	No change
4	Slight surface abrasion or (and) slight pilling
3	Moderate surface abrasion or (and) moderate pilling, with balls of different sizes anddensities covering part of the surface of the samples.
2	Significant surface abrasion or (and) pilling, with balls of different sizes and densitiescovering most of the surface of the samples.
1	Severe abrasion or (and) pilling on the surface, with balls of different sizes and densitiescovering the entire surface of the samples.

This iso 12945-2 Martindale Abrasion Tester is an essential tool for textile manufacturers, quality control laboratories, and researchers who are committed to ensuring the highest quality of textile products.

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