Testing acc. to VDA 230-218: Plastic Roll Goods for Motor Vehicle Interiors Test procedures for scratch resistance: scuffing
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Testing methods
Our test laboratory performs testing according to VDA 230-218 as an accredited test method to evaluate the behaviour of surface materials under scratching and scuffing. The method was developed for materials used in motor vehicle interiors and is particularly suitable for plastic roll goods, coated textiles and artificial leather.
The test evaluates linear changes to the material and surface structure. VDA 230-218 distinguishes between scuffing involving material displacement, scratching involving material displacement or removal, and marring, in which the surface structure is visibly levelled.
Testing according to VDA 230-218
The specimens are fixed to a support and subjected to mechanical loading using a defined chisel. Under a specified load, the chisel is moved once forward and backward across the surface. Depending on the material specification, the total load can be adjusted between 500 g and 4,000 g.
Specimens are tested in both the longitudinal and transverse directions of the roll material. If required, specimens cut directly from components or materials in a defined strained condition can also be examined. The resulting surface changes are then assessed visually.
Applications of the test
VDA 230-218 is used to assess the resistance of surface materials to mechanical stresses that can occur during the manufacture, assembly and use of vehicle interior components. The evaluation particularly considers irreversible damage to the material structure, scratches, material displacement, material removal and visible levelling of the surface.
The method is therefore suitable, for example, for comparing different surfaces, coatings, material formulations and manufacturing variants of plastic roll goods and coated textiles. The influence of surface structure, backing or material direction on scratching and scuffing behaviour can also be investigated.
Related tests
FILK offers additional methods for evaluating the scratch resistance of surfaces. These include the scratch test according to DIN EN ISO 22557 and scratch testing according to VW PV 3952. For vehicle interior applications, these methods can represent different types of mechanical surface stress depending on the material, surface and manufacturer specification.
Here you will also find an overview of our range of VDA tests and specifications.
