Wyzenbeek Definition:

Double rubs are a measure of how resistant fabric is to abrasive forces. The vast majority of fabrics list them, and they help to determine what fabric is most suitable for the specific purpose you require. Double rubs are determined by an automated test known as the Wyzenbeek Test (also referred to as the Wyzenbeek Method).

Wyzenbeek vs Martindale:

In North America, The Wyzenbeek Method is the standard measure of a fabric’s abrasive resistance. A piece of stiff cotton cloth is laid over a machine and rubbed all over a sample of the fabric. The rubbing from sitting on a seat cushion is what the test attempts to replicate. Each backward and forward motion makes up one rub. The test continues until the fabric shows visible wear, two yarn breaks or 15,000 double rubs, which is regarded as too intense for domestic purposes.

Europe and Asia majorly recognize the Martindale Method for fabric abrasion test. This method is generally regarded as more accurate than the Wyzenbeek. A sample of the fabric is laid out flat and stroked in an adapted figure-eight movement against a piece of smooth woolen cloth. What is counted is the number of cycles the fabric endures prior to displaying some sign of wear.

The American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) acknowledges and accepts these two abrasion test methods.

Martindale to Wyzenbeek Conversion:

The rating ratio of Martindale to Wyzenbeek ratio is 4:3, while their units are equal.

For instance: 20,000 Martindale = 15,000 Wyzenbeek = the industrial benchmark for heavy-duty domestic upholstery.