MaTestLab > Test Standards > ASTM E303 Standard Test Method for Measuring Surface Frictional Properties Using the British Pendulum Tester
Last updated 26th February 2025
ASTM E303 Standard Test Method for Measuring Surface Frictional Properties Using the British Pendulum Tester
The ASTM E303 test method outlines how to measure surface friction using the British Pendulum Skid Resistance Tester. The tester is a dynamic pendulum impact tool that gauges energy loss as a rubber slider edge moves across a surface. It's suitable for both lab and field tests on flat surfaces and can measure polish values on curved specimens from accelerated polishing-wheel tests.
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E303 Introduction
ASTM E303 test method offers a way to measure the microtexture, a frictional property of surfaces, in both field and laboratory settings. It can assess the impact of different polishing techniques on materials or combinations of materials.
However, the values obtained through the ASTM E303 test method might not directly align or correlate with measurements from other methods used to determine friction properties or skid resistance. Additionally, the testing method includes calibration instructions for the tester in the Annex.
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ASTM E303 Testing
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ASTM E303 Test Procedure
Specimen Selection
The Pendulum-Type Tester is used to assess the frictional properties of a test surface. A thorough preparation process, including cleaning and saturation, is required before the evaluation. The pendulum slider is carefully positioned to minimize contact with the surface, ensuring accurate measurement and evaluation of the surface’s frictional properties.
Test Setup and Execution
The pendulum is elevated to a locked position and then released to enable the slider to contact the test surface. A drag pointer indicates the British Pendulum Number (Tester Number). The extent of swing retardation correlates with the friction between the slider and the test surface, determining a larger BPN reading. For each test surface, the pendulum undergoes four swings to derive measurements.
E303 Equipment and Sample Preparation
Specimen Details
Air permeability testing in ASTM E303 involves a small piece of fabric being tested in a standard environment to ensure the correct moisture and temperature levels, with multiple pieces from different parts taken to consider any differences within the fabric.
Specimen Dimensions
Air permeability testing involves cutting fabric specimens into square or circular shapes, determining sides or diameter, and measuring thickness precisely to ensure uniformity and accuracy in results during air permeability assessments.
E303 Test Results and Interpretation
The ASTM E303 standard uses the British Pendulum Tester to evaluate surface frictional properties, resulting in the Pendulum Test Value (PTV). This value indicates a surface’s dynamic coefficient of friction, with higher values indicating greater slip resistance and lower values indicating greater slipperiness. This classification aids in decision-making for surface suitability, safety measures, and material selection.
Tests Related to E303
An important test relevant to ASTM E303 is the ASTM E501 Specification for Standard Rib Tire for Pavement Skid Resistance Tests.
Use of E303 in Various Industries
Standard is utilized in the transport, sport, and construction industries to check on the friction of surfaces for safety purposes, reduce slipping risks, and verify anti-slip properties of flooring in commercial and residential projects.
Materials Commonly Tested with E303
The test standard requires slip resistance testing of the material, such as asphalt, concrete, ceramic tiles, and polymers used for floor coverings as well as all textured walkways, ramps, and pool decks, to ensure safety standards in high-traffic areas.
Common Challenges and Troubleshooting in E303
Environmental conditions in tests may vary, and surface temperature or moisture could be influencers on friction measurement. Calibration of the British Pendulum Tester is a must, besides ensuring that the rubber slider of the pendulum system is intact and aligned properly during troubleshooting.
Safety and Best Practices in E303 Testing
Safety includes the wearing of proper personal protective gear, testing areas to be secured, test under a controlled environment, periodic calibration verification, and checking of wear in the rubber slider, must be ensured when performing the test.
Importance of E303
It is an important safety standard relating slip resistance in most varied applications within environments. It standardizes the method for measuring friction across different materials and conditions and thereby helps various industries minimize the risks of accidents associated with slipping on unsafe surfaces.
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FAQ's
Where can I get the astm e303 tested?
You can share your astm e303 testing requirements with MaTestLab. MaTestLab has a vast network of material testing laboratories, spread across the USA and Canada. We support your all material testing needs ranging from specific astm e303 test to various testing techniques.
How much do I need to pay for the astm e303 test?
Please contact us for a detailed quote for your astm e303 testing needs. Cost incurred to carry out different astm e303 testing methodology depends on the type of raw material; number of samples, coupons, or specimens; test conditions, turn around time etc. Costs of some ASTM testing methods start from $100 and the final value depends upon the factors listed above. Please contact us for the best and latest prices.
How many samples are required for astm e303?
The required number of samples or specimens should comply with the procedure given in the astm e303 standard. However, the MaTestLab operations team can assist you for your special requirements once you share your testing details with us.
How much discount can I get on the astm e303 test?
MaTestLab has a vast testing laboratory network, hence we bring you the best testing facilities in a cost-effective way. We offer considerable discounts (15-20%) to our returning customers based on test volume and frequency.
How many days will it take to complete the astm e303 test?
The turnaround time for astm e303 test methodology depends upon the test procedure mentioned in the standard test document. However, we at MaTestLab understand your research requirements and hence try to get your test completed within the least possible time.
Where can I get the astm e303 tested?
You can share your astm e303 testing requirements with MaTestLab. MaTestLab has a vast network of material testing laboratories, spread across the USA and Canada. We support your all material testing needs ranging from specific astm e303 test to various testing techniques.
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