D4103-17 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide

🚧 Scope and Significance of ASTM D4103-17

ASTM D4103-17, under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D21 on Polishes, establishes standardized procedures for preparing substrate surfaces—specifically Official Vinyl Composition Tile (OVCT) and wood panels—for subsequent Coefficient of Friction (COF) testing. The reliability of any COF measurement is directly dependent upon the manner and care in which these test panels are prepared. Consolidating these procedures into a single practice eliminates the necessity for covering these details across all individual testing methods.

This practice references ASTM D1436 (Test Methods for Application of Emulsion Floor Polishes to Substrates for Testing Purposes) for the application of polish coats. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

⚙️ Preparation Procedure for OVCT Test Panels

The OVCT tile preparation process involves a rigorous conditioning cycle to create a standard, uniform surface. The tiles are first thoroughly scrubbed using No. 00 steel wool and an aqueous wax remover or stripper. The tiles must be scrubbed hard to smooth out high and low spots, then rinsed well with clear water, towel dried, and air dried for 15 to 30 minutes in a rack that allows