ISO 23337:2024

Overview

ISO 23337:2024 specifies a laboratory method for determining the abrasion resistance of vulcanized or thermoplastic rubber using the Improved Lambourn test machine. The method measures abrasion loss caused by the slip between a rotating disc-shaped rubber test piece and an abrasive wheel. Results are reported as volume loss per abrasion time or running distance, and/or as an abrasion resistance index relative to a reference compound. The standard is suitable for evaluating rubber compounds across a wide range of abrasive conditions (slip rate, sliding speed, load) and includes an example for tyre tread rubber.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Test principle: Independent rotation of test piece and abrasive wheel with their circumferences pressed together; controlled grit feed prevents smearing.
• Apparatus: Improved Lambourn machine with separate drive motors for test piece and abrasive wheel, test chamber, grit-dropping mechanism and loading mechanism.
• Abrasive wheel specifications: Silicon carbide (abrasive C), grit size F80 (ISO 8486‑1), hardness grade K, vitrified bond V, maximum operating speed < 16 m/s. Wheel diameters allowed: 175 mm, 205 mm or 305 mm; thickness 20–50 mm.
• Test piece dimensions: Disc-shaped pieces with permitted diameter/thickness combinations (e.g., 49.0 mm or 63.5 mm diameters; thickness 5.0 mm or 10.0 mm) and guides (43.0 mm or 58.5 mm, 4 mm thick).
• Operational ranges: Circumferential speeds between 10 m/min and 200 m/min; load range 5 N to 80 N. Torque monitoring on the test-piece drive (0 to 5 N·m, resolution 0.01 N·m).
• Results & reporting: Mass loss measured, density determined (ISO 2781) to convert to volume loss; abrasion resistance index calculated against a reference compound. Includes requirements for calibration, precision and test reporting.
• Annexes: Informative precision data and normative calibration schedule.

Practical applications

• Development and selection of rubber compounds for tyres, belts, seals and other wear-prone products.
• Comparative evaluation of tread rubbers under variable severity conditions (slip rate, speed, load).
• Quality control and specification verification in manufacturing.
• R&D for compound formulation to optimise wear resistance and performance trade-offs.
• Independent testing labs performing standardized abrasion testing for certification and material data sheets.

Who should use this standard

• Tyre and rubber compound manufacturers
• Material testing laboratories and certification bodies
• Automotive OEMs and suppliers assessing tread performance
• R&D teams and quality assurance engineers in rubber product industries

Related standards

• ISO 525 - Bonded abrasive products (shape and marking)
• ISO 8486‑1 - Bonded abrasives (grain size F4–F220)
• ISO 2781 - Rubber density determination
• ISO 18899:2013 - Calibration of test equipment
• ISO 23529 - Preparing and conditioning rubber test pieces

Keywords: ISO 23337:2024, Improved Lambourn, rubber abrasion resistance, abrasion test machine, tyre tread testing, abrasion resistance index, slip rate, abrasion volume loss.