ASTM G65 Measuring Abrasion Using the Dry Sand/Rubber Wheel Apparatus

    What is ASTM G65? 

    ASTM G65 is a standard test method for determining metals’ ability to withstand controlled laboratory scratching abrasion. This method uses a dry sand/rubber wheel machine to generate repeatable abrasive wear and compare material performance. The abrasion test specimen is placed between a rotating rubber wheel and abrasive sand under a specified load during testing. The test measures and reports the resulting material loss as volume loss in cubic millimeters (mm³). The lower the volume loss, the higher the abrasion resistance under the selected test conditions. ASTM G65 (Standard Test Method for Measuring Abrasion Using the Dry Sand/Rubber Wheel Apparatus) includes five procedures designed for different wear-resistance levels and material thicknesses.

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    Get Certified ASTM G65 Testing for Reliable Abrasion Resistance Evaluation 

    ASTM G65 testing assesses the comparative abrasion resistance of metallic materials and coatings. It offers quantitative data for material comparison, quality control, and product development. Technicians perform tests in a controlled abrasive environment, and analysts determine and interpret volume loss. They use the results to assess material selection and specifications.

    What is the Scope of ASTM G65? 

    ASTM G65 is a standard test method to measure the scratch resistance of metallic materials under dry sand and rubber-wheel abrasion. The method should provide repeatable results that allow materials to be ordered from most to least abrasive under the given conditions. 

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    The standard consists of five procedures, A-E, varying in severity, length of time, or intended use. Results are presented as volume loss in cubic millimeters; the lower the figure, the more abrasion-resistant the material.

    The scope of ASTM G65 includes: 

    • Material: Metallic materials and applicable thin coatings evaluated using the appropriate procedure. 
    • Objective: To compare the resistance to scratching abrasion of materials in controlled laboratory conditions. 
    • Property measurement: Determine abrasive wear through the material’s volume loss. 
    • Method: Rotating rubber wheel, dry abrasive sand, a specified load, and a controlled arrangement of the specimen. 
    • Result: Report the volume loss in cubic millimeters (mm³) for the procedure selected. 
    • Test Limitations: The test does not simulate all field conditions such as particle shape, impact, pressure, or corrosive exposure. 
    • Environmental conditions: Set the apparatus parameters, abrasive feed, loading conditions,s and test procedure. 
    • Applications: Test the wear resistance of metals, hardfacing materials, metal parts, and appropriate coatings in abrasive environments.

    What are the materials that can be tested with ASTM G65? 

    ASTM G65 is designed for metallic materials, such as metals, alloys, wear-resistant surfaces, and appropriate thin coatings, which are evaluated using the proper procedure. It can be used to compare resistance to scratching abrasion under controlled conditions, but the results are not necessarily predictive of service performance in all service conditions.

    Why is ASTM G65 Important? 

    Abrasive wear can affect component dimensions and surfaces and decrease the life of industrial machines. ASTM G65 offers a reproducible procedure for assessing material resistance to scratching abrasion and allows manufacturers to test material options before choosing materials for highly abrasive applications.

    ASTM G65 Equipment and Sample Preparation Guide 

    Technicians and skilled personnel prepare specimens and verify the dry sand/rubber wheel apparatus according to the selected ASTM G65 procedure. Analysts confirm that the specimen, abrasive material, applied load, and measurement equipment are appropriate for the required comparison.

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    Sample and Specimen DetailsTechnicians identify the metallic material, coating where applicable, specimen condition, and selected abrasion procedure before testing.
    Sample PreparationSkilled personnel prepare and handle specimens according to the standard, ensuring that the test surface is suitable and free from contamination that could affect measurements.
    Specimen DimensionsThe standard ASTM G65 test specimen is a rectangular block measuring 25 mm × 76 mm (1.0 in × 3.0 in) with a thickness between 3.2 mm and 12.7 mm (0.12 in to 0.50 in)
    InstrumentationAnalysts and technicians use the dry sand/rubber wheel apparatus, rotating rubber wheel, specimen holder, controlled abrasive delivery system, specified loading arrangement, and suitable balance or measurement equipment.

    Testing Procedures and Requirements for ASTM G65 

    The test procedure is chosen based on the anticipated abrasion resistance of the material and its thickness. Skilled personnel operate the apparatus under the specified conditions, while technicians record specimen measurements and analysts calculate the resulting volume loss. Other reference ASTM documents include D2240, E11, E112, E177, and G40. The complete procedure for ASTM D65 is given as:

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    Specimen IdentificationTechnicians identify the material and record specimen details, initial condition, and the selected ASTM D65 procedure.
    Apparatus PreparationSkilled personnel inspect the rubber wheel, abrasive delivery system, specimen holder, loading arrangement, and relevant equipment settings.
    Test ConfigurationTechnicians select the applicable procedure—A, B, C, D, or E—and establish the required load, abrasive feed, and test duration according to the standard
    Abrasion TestingSkilled personnel conduct the test while the rubber wheel and dry abrasive sand interact with the specimen under controlled conditions.
    Measurement and ReportingAnalysts determine the material loss, calculate volume loss as required, report the result in mm³, and document the selected procedure and relevant test conditions.

    ASTM G65 Testing Process and Data Collection 

    The first step in ASTM G65 testing is to determine the type of specimen and the testing procedure to be used based on the anticipated wear resistance and thickness. Technicians check the apparatus and ensure proper abrasive feed and loading system and document the specimen’s starting mass and other pertinent information. In testing, dry sand flows between a rotating rubber wheel and a specimen under certain conditions. Technicians measure the material loss of the specimen after the test, and the analysts calculate the volume loss according to the appropriate procedure. The report documents the selected procedure, material identification, recorded data, calculated volume loss in mm³, and any observations to facilitate comparison of materials.

     This image represents a workflow for measuring abrasion using the dry sand or rubber wheel apparatus as per ASTM G65.
    ASTM G65 Testing Procedure 

    Common Challenges and Troubleshooting 

    Inconsistent abrasive feed, rubber wheel wear, incorrect loading, unsuitable specimen preparation, and inaccurate mass measurements can affect test repeatability. Technicians should check the apparatus, confirm the abrasive delivery system, adhere to the chosen procedure, and utilize appropriate measurement tools. Skilled personnel should also ensure that specimens are securely positioned and tested under the specified conditions. Before drawing conclusions, the analyst should review unusual volume-loss results to confirm no errors in equipment settings, specimen condition, abrasive characteristics, or calculation records.

    ASTM G65 Analysis Results and Interpretation 

    ASTM G65 analysis is based on the amount of material removed by intentional scratching abrasion. Laboratory reports should include measured data, the selected procedure, specimen identification, and computed volume loss to compare abrasion resistance and evaluate material performance.

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    • Laboratory reports present volume loss from abrasive wear in cubic millimeters (mm³), as required by the standard.
    • Technicians record the material identification, specimen condition, selected procedure, and apparatus and test conditions.
    • Analysts compare volume-loss results to determine the relative abrasion resistance of tested materials under the specified conditions.
    • Analysts recognize that Procedure A, B, C, D, or E may have been used, as each procedure is designed for different wear-resistance levels or material thicknesses.

    How do I submit a sample or request an ASTM G65 quote? 

    Please check with the laboratory of your choice for specimen dimensions, material information, and required procedure and reporting needs. Before sending specimens, ask for a quote on the testing scope agreed upon. 

    Do you serve clients internationally for ASTM G65? 

    International service is dependent on the service area of the laboratory, shipping arrangements, and the requirements for samples to be accepted. Check availability and shipping/import requirements directly with the laboratory.

    What is the price of ASTM G65 testing?

    The ASTM G65 pricing starts at $700 per sample. However, final pricing depends on several factors, including the type and number of samples, specimen size, specimen preparation requirements, and any other specific condition requirements. We offer faster turnaround times for a rush fee. Please contact our team to understand more about your particular testing needs.

    What is the turnaround time for ASTM G65?

    The standard turnaround time for this test is 2-3 weeks. However, turnaround time may vary depending on the samples being handled and the required test conditions. Please contact our team to understand more about your particular testing needs.

    Link to ASTM G65

    FAQ

    What does ASTM G65 measure?
    ASTM G65 is a standard method for determining the resistance to scratching abrasion of metallic materials by the dry sand/rubber wheel method. Volume loss is reported in cubic millimeters.
    No. ASTM G65 provides comparative laboratory data rather than an exact prediction of service life. Actual wear may also depend on the abrasive particle characteristics, impact, loading, and corrosive conditions.
    Accreditation depends on the individual laboratory and its accredited scope. Confirm directly with the laboratory whether its accreditation covers the requested ASTM G65 testing.
    The method is based on a dry sand/rubber wheel apparatus which has a controlled abrasive delivery system and loading arrangement. Request that the testing lab verify equipment, procedure, and measurement capability.

    Updated on October 26, 2026

    Suyog Kamble
    About Author
    Suyog Kamble is an Operations Associate at Matestlab Inc. Suyog holds a postgraduate degree in organic chemistry and is trained in material science topics.
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