Investigating the influence of sand particle properties on abrasive wear behaviour

► The influence of sand particle properties on three-body abrasion was studied experimentally. ► The particle size was characterised combining sieve analyses with confocal microscopy. ► The particle shape was characterised using confocal microscopy and calculating shape factors. ► It was confirmed that, next to particle size and shape, the particle feed rate influences abrasion. ► By combining the particle properties, a relation between the properties and the wear was defined.