Overview
ISO 21182:2013 specifies laboratory test methods for determining the dynamic (μD) and static (μS) coefficients of friction of light conveyor belts (as used with ISO 21183-1). The standard defines the test principle, apparatus, specimen preparation, test procedure, calculation of results and test-report requirements so that different belt covers can be compared reproducibly.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Test principle: A standardized metallic test panel is pulled over a full‑thickness test piece while a defined normal force and speed are applied. μD is taken from sliding (dynamic) friction; μS from the break‑away (static) force.
- Scope/limits: Method applies up to μD ≈ 1.0 and μS ≈ 1.5; higher values may involve adhesion/deformation effects and be unsuitable.
- Apparatus:
- Metallic test panel: steel CR1 (ISO 3574), thickness 0.8 mm; width (76 ± 0.5) mm; length 152 mm; testing area ≈ 100 cm2; milled surface, Ra 0.9–1.3 μm; hardness HRB 60–70.
- Mass to generate normal force: 50 N ± 1 N.
- Load cell (range up to 100 N), force-measuring system per ISO 7500-1 (class 3 or better).
- Pulling mechanism (tensile tester), deflection roller (40–50 mm diameter), low‑elasticity pulling cable.
- Specimens & conditioning:
- Cut three test pieces 600 mm × 100 mm from full belt thickness (longitudinal and/or transverse).
- Condition specimens in accordance with ISO 18573, Atmosphere B, for at least 24 h.
- Test speeds & path:
- Dynamic: (1 000 ± 20) mm/min (can be reduced to no less than 500 mm/min if machine limited); use last 200 mm of a 300 mm path for μD.
- Static: (100 ± 10) mm/min; stop when panel begins to move and use first peak/deviation for μS.
- Panel care: Replace after a maximum of 50 applications or after one day of use; store dry and handle with clean cotton gloves.
- Result expression: μD reported as median (preferably per ISO 6133); μS from the break‑away peak. Test report must include individual values, mean, specimen details, conditioning, environment, panel details and any deviations.
Applications and who uses it
- Belt manufacturers and R&D teams - product development and quality control.
- Test laboratories - standardized friction characterization and certification.
- Purchasing/specification engineers and end users - comparing belt covers to select appropriate conveyor belts for light‑duty conveying, slip prevention or product handling.
- QA and compliance teams - inclusion in procurement specifications and comparative testing.
Related standards
- ISO 21183-1 (Light conveyor belts - principal characteristics and applications)
- ISO 18573 (Test atmospheres and conditioning)
- ISO 3574 (Cold‑reduced carbon steel)
- ISO 4287 (Surface texture - profile method)
- ISO 7500-1 (Verification of force measuring systems)
- ISO 6133 (Analysis of multi‑peak traces)
Keywords: ISO 21182, light conveyor belts, coefficient of friction, dynamic coefficient, static coefficient, metallic test panel, conveyor belt testing, friction test method.
