The Elcometer 1700 and 1750 Taber Rotary Abrasers (part numbers ST981700-2, ST981700-1, ST981750-2 and ST981750-1) are accelerated wear test machines used to assess the abrasion resistance of materials and surface finishes. They are used primarily in the testing of ceramics, plastics, textiles, metals, leather, rubber and painted, lacquered and electroplated surfaces, where knowing how a finish stands up to repeated rubbing determines whether it will survive in service.

The abraser runs a sample on a rotating platform against abrading wheels, reproducing real-world wear under a controlled load so results can be compared between batches and against a specification. Platform speeds are 60 and 72rpm, with balanced, calibrated arms and wheel mounts and a vacuum system with precision height adjustment that clears debris from the test track. A sealed aluminium housing carries a membrane control panel and digital display. The single-head Elcometer 1700 measures 315 x 391.2 x 213.4mm and weighs 14.9kg; the dual-head Elcometer 1750 measures 535.9 x 393.7 x 213.4mm and weighs 24.9kg, with the vacuum unit at 279 x 279 x 610mm and 10.4kg.

The Elcometer 1700 & 1750 Taber Rotary Abraser can be used in accordance with a wide range of standards including ASTM D4060, ASTM D3884, ISO 5470-1, ISO 9352, DIN 52347 and TAPPI T 476, among many others, so a single machine covers numerous national and industry test methods. It is used in coatings, laminate, flooring, automotive and materials testing. Supplied by BAMR, South Africa's authorised Elcometer distributor.