The Surface Roughness / Friction Tester is an upgraded version of the FB4-A instrument, designed to evaluate the frictional feel and surface roughness of materials by simulating human touch. It quantifies “smoothness,” “slip,” and “roughness” through measurements of friction coefficient (MIU), friction coefficient deviation (MMD), and surface roughness (SMD). This instrument is suitable for fabrics, hair, and other soft-touch materials, providing objective data to support tactile performance evaluation.
You can use this instrument to measure and analyze surface friction and roughness for a wide range of materials:
Textiles: fabrics, gauze, nonwovens.
Hygiene products: diapers, sanitary napkins, and other soft materials.
Cosmetic packaging: assess smoothness and tactile quality.
Hair testing: analyze softness and smoothness of human or animal hair.
Furniture and automotive interiors: leather, synthetic leather, seat materials, and other surfaces requiring frictional evaluation.
This instrument supports the following international and national testing standards:
(1) GB/T 12602-1990 – Textile friction performance test methods
(2) ASTM D1894-14 – Determination of static and kinetic coefficient of friction of plastics
(3) ISO 8295:1995 – Plastics, films and sheets: Determination of friction coefficient
(4) JIS L1096-1999 – General methods for textile testing
(1) Friction measurement sensor (10 × 10 mm)
(2) Surface roughness contact element (0.5 mm metal wire)
(3) Electronic amplifier
(4) Power adapter (AC 100 V)
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Device Dimensions / Weight | Main unit: W320 × D200 × H390 mm / 10 kg; Electronic amplifier: W180 × D400 × H400 mm / 12 kg |
| Power Supply | AC 100 V, max 30 W |
| Operating Environment | 20–30°C, 50–70% RH (Standard: 20°C, 65% RH) |
| Testing Method | Friction coefficient, friction coefficient deviation (MMD), surface roughness (SMD) |
| Load Range | 200 gf (standard), 1000 gf (low sensitivity) |
| Measurement Accuracy | Friction: ±0.5% FS; Surface roughness: ±1.0% FS |
| Maximum Displacement | 30 mm (effective 20 mm) |
| Sample Size | 30 × 270 mm (standard) |
| Friction Sensor Size | 10 × 10 mm (single measurement) |
| Measurement Speed | 1. 2. 5. 10 mm/sec (adjustable) |
| Roughness Contact | 0.5 mm metal wire, 5 mm contact width |
(1) Rapid testing: Simulates fingertip friction signals for fast and intuitive tactile assessment.
(2) Comprehensive measurements: Simultaneously evaluates friction coefficient, friction deviation, and surface roughness.
(3) Realistic tactile simulation: Advanced sensor design closely mimics fingertip perception of friction.
(4) High precision: Ensures accurate measurement for demanding tactile performance testing.
(5) Wide applicability: Suitable for textiles, hair, leather, and other soft-touch materials.
Sample installation: Fix the sample on the test platform, ensuring full contact with the sensor.
Parameter setup: Select appropriate measurement speed and sensitivity.
Testing: Start the instrument; it automatically measures friction coefficient (MIU), friction deviation (MMD), and surface roughness (SMD).
Data reading: Review results on the digital display. MIU, MMD, and SMD values provide a complete tactile evaluation.
Data recording: Save measurements digitally for analysis or reporting.
Keep sensors and contact elements clean to ensure accurate readings.
Regularly check calibration for friction and roughness sensors.
Avoid exposure to excessive humidity or heat.
Handle sensors and moving components carefully to prevent wear or damage.
