ASTM D5417 Vetterman Drum Carpet Appearance Retention Test
Floor Detective® Laboratory Testing Reference
Summary
The Vetterman Drum test, ASTM D5417, is a laboratory trafficking method used to evaluate carpet appearance retention and surface durability under controlled mechanical wear conditions. Carpet specimens are mounted inside a rotating drum and subjected to repeated rolling and impact forces from a weighted steel ball fitted with rubber feet. The test is designed to simulate certain aspects of foot traffic and is commonly used to compare the relative performance of carpet constructions, fibers, yarn systems, and pile configurations. Test results are typically evaluated using CRI Appearance Retention Reference Scales and are intended for comparative product evaluation rather than prediction of actual field performance. See also CRI Carpet Appearance Retention Scales, Contract Walker, and Flooring Laboratory Testing and Analysis.
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