SATRA invests in new ramp test for floorings

Edited by the Buildingtalk editorial team May 7, 2007

SATRA Technology Centre install top of the range ramp test machine for assessing slip resistance of flooring materials

SATRA Technology Centre has recently installed a top of the range ramp test machine for assessing the slip resistance of flooring materials, costing a total of GBP55,000.

The machine was built by SATRA's own engineering team and incorporates a fully adjustable sloping ramp measuring two metres long and 0.65 metres wide.

The ramp, which has digital readout of slope angle, a wetting system for the test floor for three different liquids, as well as liquid collection and disposal facilities, enables the machine to test a range of materials under various service conditions.

The test is gaining widespread recognition with many customers across Europe.

Floorcoverings are fitted to the ramp surface and an operator in a safety harness walks on the ramp, shuffling backwards and forwards in a specified manner, whilst tilting the table at an angle using a remote control.

Special footwear is worn by the operator to ensure a consistency of slip and grip properties.

At the point slip occurs and the operator loses his/her footing on the floorcovering, a reading of the incline angle is made.

Consistency of the operators is checked at intervals using specially made calibration plates that are placed on the ramp.

The operator walks on the plates as the table gradually inclines.

When slip occurs, SATRA checks that this is the correct angle for the particular plates being walked on.

The purpose built machine, which can test wet, dry and contaminated floor services, conforms to the following standards and test methods: DIN 51097:1992: (Determination of anti-slip properties.

Wet loaded barefoot areas.

Walking method - Ramp test); DIN 51130:1992: (Testing of floor coverings - Determination of slip resistance - Work rooms and areas of work with an increased risk of slipping - Walking method - ramp test); Draft BS 8445 and Draft method in CEN/TC 339, EN 13845 and prEN 13552.

By using the ramp method of measuring slip resistance, SATRA is offering an important service to clients across Europe.

The ramp test machine is ideal for judging fitness for purpose and comparing the performance of two or more floorcoverings materials.

SATRA expects a high demand for the machine by suppliers of floorcoverings products who wish to demonstrate that their products meet the expectations of the user.

For more information on how the ramp test can be used to your advantage please consult Steve Ferry at SATRA on stevef@satra.co.uk or +44 (0)1536 410000.