ASTM D2047
James Machine Static Coefficient of Friction TESTING  
Polish-Coated Flooring Surfaces

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ASTM D2047 James Machine Static Coefficient of Friction Testing

Static Coefficient of Friction test for polish-coated flooring surfaces

The James Machine test is used to assess the static coefficient of friction of polish-coated flooring surfaces as it pertains to human locomotion safety. This includes a compliance criterion for nonhazardous polished walkway surfaces. It is not compatible with wet surfaces.
 

Which materials should to be tested in accordance with ASTM D2047?


ASTM D2047 is designed for use with polish-coated flooring surfaces, including vinyl tile, wood panels or ceramic tiles. This test may also be adapted for other flooring products with a smooth surface, such as engineered and solid wood flooring. The compliance criterion listed in D2047 may not be applicable to other types of flooring materials. 

Please Note: Any material tested with the James Machine must be substantially smooth and flat. Material which does not lie flat will not yield meaningful test results. Rough textured material cannot be tested as it will damage the controlled friction surface. If you are unsure if your product can be tested, please feel free to submit an inquiry with the product’s details.

Photo of the full James Machine testing apparatus

How is ASTM D2047 testing performed?


The specimen is placed in the machine, and the controlled leather “shoe” material is placed on top of the specimen. A set of weights is lowered until they are fully resting on the shoe via a rotating strut. The specimen is then translated forward away from the weights at a constant rate with the shoe in place on the specimen surface. As the specimen and shoe move, the strut applying the weight to the shoe rotates to an increasingly acute angle. This translation continues until the shoe loses traction and slides across the specimen surface. The static coefficient of friction is determined by the point at which the shoe began to slip.

Photo showing a closeup of the leather shoe component as it is situated in the James machine atop the surface of a specimen

What will be included in an ASTM D2047 report?

 

  • Average static coefficient of friction
  • Temperature and humidity at the time of testing
  • If applicable, any alterations to the test method, including alternate specimen size or quantity

 

ASTM D2047 Test Specimen Preparation


Specimens consist of a 12” x 12” tile or panel of flooring, which is large enough to accommodate four tests, one on each edge. Three tiles or panels are typically tested per product for a total of 12 test passes.


Smaller materials may be accommodated, but more specimens may be required in order to maintain the same number of test passes.


When testing a polish or other coating, it should be uniformly applied to an appropriate substrate which is substantially smooth and flat. Any coating should be allowed to fully cure before testing. 

Accreditation


Capital Testing and Certification Services is ISO/IEC 17025 accredited to conduct ASTM D2047 testing