The Triboster TSf-503 is designed for computer-controlled analysis of the static and kinetic coefficient of friction (COF). The highly versatile device, with its linear reciprocating sample stage, can be used for all kinds of samples with different shapes because fixtures can be specially designed according to the sample. The TSf-503 features the unique patented crank-shaped biaxial balance technology for accurate and reliable measurements.

TSf-503 is available with a standard normal load range of 100 to 1.000 g and an optional range of 200 to 2.000 g.

Measurements with different loads, speeds, contact probe geometries, measurement methods, and options allow customers to set up the instruments to meet their special needs.

A Friction Analyzer or Friction Tester measures two objects' resistance, or friction force, which slide against each other. The magnitude of the friction and the abrasion depends on material composition, contact geometry, load (normal force), sliding speed, temperature, humidity, surface roughness, etc. The value of the Coefficient Of Friction (COF) “μ” is defined by the relationship between the required force ”F” to slide an object and the load “W” perpendicular to the surface the object is resting on. As the COF is a dimensionless scalar, it has no unit, and the direction of the force does not change its magnitude.

The kinetic COF follows after overcoming the static COF, so the COF “μ” can be 1) static or 2) kinetic.

1) The static COF "μs" describes the friction force between two objects when neither of the objects is moving.
2) The kinetic COF "μk", or sliding or dynamic COF, describes the friction force between two objects if one object is moving or if two objects are moving against each other.

Non-moving objects experience more friction than moving ones, requiring more force to put them in motion than sustain them. Thus, the static COF is larger than its kinetic counterpart.

One major advantage of this new crank-shaped biaxial balance technology is isolating inertia effects and external forces from the load cell. The upper part of the biaxial balance is a supporting arm for the weight, while the lower part acts as a transducing arm for the friction force to the load cell. Both parts perform their functions individually, properly isolating inertial effects and external forces from the load cell.

Another major advantage is that due to the leveled frictional surface and the rotation axis of the balance, the weight perpendicular to the surface of contact is the same in both directions, back and forth. Therefore, the friction force transduced to the load cell is the same despite different directions.

Implementing the crank-shaped biaxial balance technology to our Triboster TSf-503 results in highly accurate and reliable measurement data unaffected by inertial effects and the sample stage's back-and-forth movement.