Structure and functionality
The HiLiTe high-speed linear friction tester was developed by IDS and is used to determine the friction properties of rubber compounds on various surfaces. It is also used to determine the force transmission mechanisms of tire tread blocks.
Possible samples can come from tires (individual tread blocks), blocks from summer and winter tires, or aircraft tires.
The sample to be tested is clamped under a measuring capsule for the tests. This is guided on a rail and driven by a toothed belt. The normal force on the sample is exerted by a bellows cylinder. To measure the forces that occur, the measuring capsule is equipped with a 3-component force transducer. This records the forces FN, FR, and FS. In addition, the speed v, the vertical displacement, and the travel distance are recorded. FR and FN are used to calculate µ as the most important parameter for rubber properties.
The tests are performed on various surfaces. These are asphalt (wet and dry), concrete, steel, snow, ice, glass, and Safetywalk. The “HiLiTe” is located in a cold chamber so that tests can be performed on snow and ice.
Technical data
- Normal force bellows cylinder: approx. 1000 N
- Maximum measuring range: 4 m
- Maximum speed: 10 m/s
- Temperatures: -20°C to + 40 °C
