Contact Angle, Surface Interface Tools

Triboster TSf series

The Triboster TSf series, consisting of two different models, is designed for computer-controlled analysis of the static and kinetic coefficient of friction (COF). The versatile models with a linear reciprocating sample stage can be used for all kinds of samples with different shapes, due to sample holders which are specially designed according to the sample. Both models feature the unique patented crank-shaped biaxial balance technology for accurate and reliable measurements.

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

Features

Biaxial balance technology

• Minimization of the effects of inertia and other external forces to the load cell during the measurements, ensuring exact and reliable results.

Two-way-measurements

• Measurement of the coefficients of friction in both ways of stage travel.

Automatic contact probe lift-up function

• Measurement of the coefficients of friction in only one way of stage travel. The contact probe is lifted automatically after one stroke to avoid contact with the sample when the stage returns.

Up to seven measuring routines

Depending on the Triboster model, a variety of different measuring routines are available to ensure the most possible flexibility in determining specific characteristics of the samples. Available measuring routines are:

• Standard repetition: Measuring the coefficients of friction repeatedly on the same measuring area in up to 12 cycles
• Continuous static friction: Measuring up to 50 data of coefficients of static friction in one stroke by the stop-and-go movement of the stage
• Repetition dependency: Measuring the coefficients of friction repeatedly on the same measuring area in 100 to 10.000 cycles
• Multi-sample: Measuring the coefficients of friction for different samples or different areas for one sample for easy comparison
• Load-dependency: Measuring the coefficients of friction depending on different normal loads
• Speed-dependency: Measuring the coefficients of friction depending on different speeds
• Time-interval dependency: Analyzing the influence of adhesion to the coefficients of friction depending on up to 4 different contact times in one way, by use of the counterpart lift-up function and the stop-and-go movement of the stage

Options

Hardware

• Heater type temperature-controlled sample stage for measurements from ambient to +180℃
• Jacket type temperature-controlled sample stage for measurements from +10 to +70℃
• A wide variety of contact probes with different geometries
• Different weights in the range from 50 to 2000g
• Special holder for measurements of pencils

Applications

Lubrication oil

• Friction, wear-resistance, and longevity of oil lubricated metallic surfaces
• Dependence of friction on temperature

Cosmetics

• Longevity and peel resistance of manicures
• The smoothness of hair before and after treatment with hairdressing
• The friction of surfaces from production machines, to improve flow properties of powders and to prevent powder adhesion

Powders

• Functionality and effectiveness of powder lubricants

Papers

• The durability of and damage to papers or the surfaces of printing media during the printing process
• Friction between paper sheets to each other, and between paper sheets and each part of the printer’s paper feed mechanism for its optimization

Rubbers & Plastics

• Friction and wear of tires against road surfaces
• Stick-slip-effect between wiper blades and wet windshields
• Functionality and persistence rubbers for table tennis rackets
• Durability and functionality of the rubber surface of paper-feed or pick-up rollers

Textiles

• Smoothness depending on textile weave pattern
• The efficiency of softening and smoothening agents on textiles
• Slippage of different kinds of fabrics on each other
• Slippage of stockings on insoles

Paints & Coatings

• The strength of plating layers and coated surfaces against scratching, continuous rubbing, sliding, etc.
• Friction and wear of coated surfaces against each other

Medical

• The friction of materials from artificial joints, valves of artificial hearts and implants
• The friction of catheters submerged in water and the durability of the catheter’s coatings.

Automobile

• Extensibility of car polish or wax on the car body and their effectiveness after drying
• Sliding characteristics between clothing fabrics and seat belts and car seats materials

Specifications

	TSf series
Measuring mode	linear reciprocating
Display resolution	coefficient of friction: 0.0001
Friction force range	standard: 0 to 1000gf (9.8N), option: 0 to 2.000gf (19.6N)
Normal load range	standard: 100 to 1.000g (in steps of 50g) optional:  200 to 2.000g (in steps of 100g)
Stage travel distance	1 to 80mm (in steps of 1mm)
Stage travel speed	0.1 to 100mm/sec
Stage travel cycles	TSf-503: max 10.000 TSf-303: max 12
Measuring routines	TSf-503: - standard repetition                - continuous static friction                - repetition dependency                - multi-sample                - load-dependency                - speed-dependency                - time-interval dependency TSf-303: - standard repetition
Maximum sample size	180x100x30mm
Sample stage size	180x100mm
Measuring temperature	standard: ambient optional:  jacket type: +10 to +70℃                heater stage: ambient to +180℃
Instrument dimensions	310x600x420mm
Approximately weight	29.0kg
Electric power: Voltage Frequency Power consumption	AC100-240V 50/60 Hz 60W 125VA
Operating environment	temperature: +10 to +35℃, humidity: 30-80%RH (non-condensing) positioned away from sources of electrical noise and vibration