Portable Pendulum Skid Resistance Tester
The Pendulum Skid Resistance Tester is an instrument originally designed to measure surface frictional properties and skid resistance when a rubber slider on a 20in (508mm) pendulum arm contacts a test surface. Key standards such as ASTM E303 and BS 7976 must be followed to ensure the validity of these measurements. A drag pointer on a 0—150 scale measures frictional resistance and the distance the pendulum head travels after striking the sample surface is determined by the surface friction. EN 13036-4 is another relevant standard for this purpose. The unit measures the potential of automotive tire skidding on road pavements and evaluates skid resistance of surfaces and polishing of aggregate samples prepared on an Accelerated Polishing Machine. The pendulum operates at a constant velocity and the distance the pendulum head travels is critical for accurate measurements. This device is used for both wet and dry surfaces to ensure safety against slipping. Adjustments to the arm position and base keep the arm in a true circular path when used on sloping road surfaces. The head with a rubber slider and known mass is the key to these measurements. The pendulum is released from a horizontal position and rotates around a spindle attached to a vertical pillar to ensure consistent and accurate results. A 0—10 scale is also included for use with Small Sliders.
Sliders are made with a graded rubber strip bonded to an aluminum backing plate. Gilson supplies Mounted Large or Small Sliders mounted to aluminum plates and Large or Small Unmounted Pads; sliders and pads are sold separately. 3in (76mm) wide Large Sliders are for field testing of road surfaces. 1-1/4in (32mm) wide Small Sliders are for laboratory testing of specimens. The Laboratory Base Plate is required for laboratory testing of specimens and sold separately. The base plate is 25x19x2in (635x480x50mm), LxWxH, including a specimen mounting block. Accelerated Polishing Specimen Molds also available.The Skid Tester comes with a setting gauge, clear ruler for sliding length verification, wrenches for assembling the unit, soft-bristle brush, spray bottle, folding stool for field use, three metal feet for the tester legs and a 29x29x13in (730x730x330mm) WxDxH rugged carrying case to hold all the components. The unit also comes with instructions, a manufacturer’s five year warranty and a traceable certificate of calibration. Order 6x24in (152x610mm) No. 60 grade silicon carbide Slider Conditioning Cloth in packs of ten to condition sliders per ASTM E303.
Features:
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For measuring skid resistance of surfaces and aggregate polishing specimens
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For lab or field use
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Arm position adjustments maintain circular path, even when operated on sloping surfaces
Included Items:
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Pendulum Skid Tester
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Setting Gauge
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Clear plastic ruler
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Wrenches
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Thermometer
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Brush
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Spray Bottle
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Folding Stool
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Three Skid Tester Feet
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Carrying Case
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Traceable calibration certificate
Dimensions is 28.3x28.7x8.7in (720x730x220), WxDxH.
Meets Test Methods: AASHTO T278 AASHTO T279 ASTM D 3319 ASTM E 303 BS 812-114 BS EN 1097-8. For concrete testing, consider using the Steel Concrete Slump Cone, made of rugged spun steel for accurate field tests.
What is a Skid Tester?
Skid testers, also known as skid resistance testers, are essential tools used to measure the skid resistance properties of various surfaces, including road surfaces, floor surfaces and pedestrian walkways. The primary purpose of a skid tester is to evaluate the surface friction and determine the risk of accidents arising from slippery roads. The most common type of skid tester is the portable skid resistance tester, which features a pendulum arm with a rubber slider mounted on the end. The pendulum test value (PTV) is the critical measurement obtained from the test, which indicates the level of skid resistance of the test surface. Skid testers are used by highway engineers, laboratory technicians and safety professionals to investigate and minimize the risk of accidents on various surfaces.
What is a Pendulum Slip Tester?
A pendulum slip tester, also known as a pendulum skid tester, is an instrument designed to measure the slip resistance of various surfaces, including floors, roads and pedestrian areas. The head with a rubber slider and known mass is the key to these measurements. This tool uses a spring-loaded rubber slider attached to a pendulum arm that rotates about a spindle attached to a vertical pillar to mimic the action of a pedestrian’s foot striking the surface. The tubular arm and pillar are part of the device’s mechanism, ensuring consistent and accurate testing. As the pendulum swings across the test surface, the friction is measured, giving a precise indication of the surface’s slip resistance. This method is well established for its accuracy and reliability in assessing walking surfaces.
Features and Benefits
The pendulum slip tester is a proven method for measuring slip resistance where the distance the pendulum head travels after striking the sample surface is determined by the frictional resistance of that surface. This is a routine test used by highway engineers to test both wet and dry surfaces, consistently measuring the resistance. The device can test different types of surfaces, giving accurate readings of the frictional properties of the test area, ensuring reliability in slippery conditions.
Accurate Slip Measurement
The pendulum slip tester gives precise and reliable measurements of slip resistance which is critical for floor safety and minimising the risk of slips and falls. The distance the pendulum head travels after striking the sample surface is determined by the resistance between the slider and the surface. The rubber slider is designed to mimic the motion of a pedestrian’s foot, giving a realistic assessment of the surface’s slip resistance. This is important for safe environments in public and private spaces.
Applications
The British pendulum tester is versatile and can be used in many applications including measuring slip resistance of both surfaces for safety and to prevent slipping. It is particularly useful in testing skid resistance of road surfaces to prevent automotive accidents.
The device tests the surface frictional properties of various materials such as clay and calcium silicate pavers, artificial sports surfaces and impact-absorbing playground surfaces by striking the surface.
It is also used to classify new pedestrian surface materials to standards such as AS/NZS 4586:1999 and in situ flooring tests including part 3 code of practice for polymer-modified cementitious wearing surfaces (BS 8204).
This wide range of applications makes the British pendulum tester a must have for industries focused on safety and material performance.
Calibration and Maintenance
To ensure the accuracy and reliability of the tester, regular calibration and maintenance is required. For more information on these services including the routine method used by highway engineers please enquire. This includes:
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Annual calibration of the arm and slider to ensure precise measurements.
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Routine cleaning and maintenance of the tester’s components to prevent any interference with its operation.
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Timely replacement of worn or damaged parts such as the slider or aluminium backing plate to maintain optimal performance.
By following these maintenance practices users can ensure their tester continues to give accurate and reliable results.
Portability
The portable design of the instrument has many advantages:
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Easy to transport to testing locations making it ideal for fieldwork.
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Quick and simple to set up and operate making testing efficient.
Can test a wide range of surfaces and materials making it versatile for pendulum test value
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Cost effective and efficient testing solution giving reliable results without the need for extensive equipment.
