The Sutherland type ink rub tester is an automated instrument for rub a test strip under specified pressure, speed and temperature over a print determining the resistance to abrasion of the print. Abrasion resistance is a critical property for printed materials. Damage due to abrasion can occur during transport, storage, handling or use, resulting in deterioration of the image and readability of the information.

The ink Rub tester allows comparison of the abrasion resistance of different materials under controlled conditions.
Weights for higher or lower forces as well as heated weights are available.
Rub resistance determines the suitability of printed matter, folding cartons, brochures, newspapers, and wrappers for further processing, mailing or other purposes. It is influenced by the properties and combinations of ink, substrate, spray powder, varnish and dampening liquid. Therefore, test of rub resistance is vital to printers, converters and manufacturers of inks and substrate.