How do you run ASTM D1894?

ASTM D1894 Coefficient of Friction Film Testing

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Summary of Test

ASTM D1894 | Adhesives | Coefficient of Friction

ASTM D1894 is a testing standard designed to measure the friction of plastic film and sheeting. This test method measures the initial and moving friction of one material being dragged across another, otherwise known as the static (initial) and kinetic (moving) coefficients of friction (COF). ASTM D1894 is commonly used for plastic sheeting but you can adapt it for nearly any product or material (example: Friction of sneakers on anti-slip paint). The test utilizes a standard universal testing machine, low force load cell, and a COF apparatus described in the specification (ADMET part number FS-CFT). The initial force to move the sled is used to calculate the static COF, and the average force once the sled is moving is used to calculate the kinetic COF.

Prior to conducting ASTM D1894, it is important to read the entire specification in the relevant ASTM publication.

Testing Procedure

ASTM D1894 | Adhesives | Coefficient of Friction

To perform ASTM D1894, you will need a special fixture specifically designed to perform Coefficient of Friction tests. It consists of two main parts, a sliding plane or plate and a sled. The test can be performed sliding material over itself or over a different material.

Cut the material you are testing to the size specified by the standard.
Tape the material to the plate, ensuring there are no wrinkles in the material.
Cut and tape the material or special surface to the sled using the specified method.
Run the string attached to the sled through the pulley and connect it to the load cell on the testing machine actuator.
Begin pulling the string at the specified rate.
Record the load when the specimen begins to move.
Continue pulling the sled, making sure the data is being recorded graphically. Stop the test once the specified sliding distance has been covered.

Calculations: