Colorfastness / 5 min READ
Crockmeter testing: what to ask about colour fastness to rubbing
A crockmeter supports assessment of colour transfer caused by rubbing. Select the configuration around the prescribed method, dry or wet assessment, specimen preparation and evaluation workflow; a crockmeter result does not replace wash or perspiration testing.
What does a crockmeter assess?
The purchasing question is whether colour transfers from the specimen during a defined rubbing procedure. Discuss the material surface, print or dye process and the current customer specification. Avoid treating a rubbing result as a complete assessment of all colourfastness properties.
Are dry and wet rubbing assessments interchangeable?
No. They represent different assessment conditions. State which conditions your customer requires, and obtain the official procedure for specimen preparation, rubbing and evaluation. This article deliberately does not prescribe loads, cycle counts or acceptance grades.
What should a crockmeter quotation include?
Request the operating configuration, suitable specimen holding, rubbing consumables, included accessories, utility requirements and evaluation needs. Ask for written compatibility information for the exact method and edition in your brief. Confirm what additional evaluation materials must be purchased.
How should results be recorded?
Create a record that identifies the sample, method and edition, preparation, operator, equipment identity, evaluation approach and any deviations. Agree the buyer acceptance requirement separately. Do not apply a universal pass grade to different products without a documented requirement.
When should you ask for a demonstration?
Before purchase, discuss representative samples and the intended method. Ask what the demonstration will establish and what it will not establish. A demonstration can help review handling and workflow, but does not itself certify every production material.
Topics in this guide
crockmeter · colour fastness to rubbing · colorfastness testing equipment
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Official sources and further reading
General purchasing guidance only. Refer to the current official test method and verified equipment documentation for technical decisions.