Test Method for Static and Kinetic Coefficients of Friction of Plastics

Zwick has developed a testing system for carrying out the coefficient of friction tests according to the latest ASTM D1894 2001 Standard. The testing machine, tools and fixtures for clamping the specimen, and specially configured testXpert II software automates the test procedure and provides a complete testing solution. The calculated results can also be transferred online to Laboratory Information Management Systems.

The test method ASTM D 1894, 2001 covers determination of the coefficient friction (COF) of plastic film and sheeting when sliding over itself or other substances under specified test conditions. The procedure permits the use of a stationary sled of specified weight with a moving plane, but it is also possible to use a moving sled with a stationary plane because both methods deliver the same coefficient of friction values for a given test specimen.

Zwick has developed testing systems which meet the requirements of both the ASTM and ISO standards, and the ProLine COF testing system is a perfect and affordable choice for such tests. It utilizes Zwick's latest high resolution digital technology and precision engineered tooling as well as testXpert II, the intelligent and reliable software configured especially for production control environments.

For the coefficient of friction test the sled is normally attached to the moving crosshead of the testing machine and pulled across the second surface of the specimen at a constant speed of 150 +/-30 mm/min (6 +/-1.2 in/min). The static force required to initiate the sliding action and the kinetic force to maintain motion are determined automatically by the testing software then combined with the sled weight and reported as static and kinetic coefficient of friction.

TestXpertII software completely automates the testing process, from the safe control of the testing machine parameters and recognition of the sensors connected to the system, to ensuring that the test results are of the highest possible accuracy and integrity. Customers also benefit from the network enabled technology, which allows bidirectional communications to an organization's IT infrastructure, helping to improve testing efficiency whilst saving time and reducing the overall cost of testing.