Journal Published Online: 06 December 2004
Volume 33, Issue 1

Test Foot Contact Time Effects in Pedestrian Slip-Resistance Metrology

CODEN: JTEVAB

Abstract

Pedestrian slip-resistance metrology involves the use of tribometers employing test feet on test surfaces. This paper investigates the hypothesis that measured static slip-resistance on smooth walkways increases with test foot contact time, as has been found for coefficient-of-friction testing between smooth metals. Earlier slip-resistance testing by others, as well as results from testing in the present investigation, is consistent with this hypothesis. Some tribometers cannot control contact time. If the contact-time hypothesis is correct, reproducible results cannot be obtained from such devices. The mechanism accounting for increased metallic friction with contact time, as well as its possible applicability to slip-resistance tribometry, is discussed.

Author Information

Smith, RH
National Forensic Engineers, Inc., Kenmore, WA
Pages: 5
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: JTE11807
ISSN: 0090-3973
DOI: 10.1520/JTE11807