This test method is intended for testing dry and wet abrasion resistance of manufactured fiber yarns. This test method is especially useful for ropes intended for use in the marine environment. The test method has been used with yarns having linear densities ranging from 70 to 300 tex, but may be used with yarns outside these ranges.

Limited interlaboratory correlation testing has been conducted to date. Single-laboratory testing, in accordance with ASTM practices, has now been conducted. Additional interlaboratory testing, in accordance with ASTM practices, will be conducted after approval of a definitive test method. Test results should be used with caution pending completion of interlaboratory testing.

This test method is not recommended for acceptance testing of commercial shipments in the absence of reliable information on between-laboratory precision.

If there are differences of practical significance between reported test results for two or more laboratories, comparative tests should be performed to determine if there is a statistical bias between them, using competent statistical assistance. As a minimum the test samples used should be as homogeneous as possible, be drawn from the material from which the disparate test results were obtained, and be randomly assigned in equal numbers to each laboratory for testing. Other materials with established test values may be used for this purpose. The test results from the two or more laboratories should be compared using a statistical test for unpaired data, at a probability level chosen prior to testing. If a bias is found, either its cause must be found and corrected, or future test results must be adjusted in consideration of the known bias.

This test method is conducted at one or several applied tensions that may depend upon the yarn material and size. The number and magnitudes of applied tensions and the number of eight specimen sets generally are agreed upon in a material specification or contract order. Guidance on determining the appropriate number and magnitudes of applied tensions is given in Annex A2.