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D4917-97 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
📐 Test Method Overview and Scope
ASTM D4917 – 97 (Reapproved 2007)´1 specifies a horizontal plane procedure for determining the coefficient of static and kinetic friction of uncoated writing and printing paper when sliding against itself. The coefficient of friction (COF) is measured directly from the resistance to tangential motion and the applied weight pressing two pieces of paper together.
This standard defines static COF as the force required to initiate movement between two surfaces, and kinetic COF as the force required to cause continuation of the movement at a uniform speed. While an inclined plane method (Test Method D4918) can be used for static COF, it does not provide kinetic COF values. The choice of approach depends on the equipment available and the specific measurement needs.
⚠️ Scope Limitation: While this test method is basic in concept, the precision statement has been developed specifically on uncoated writing and printing papers. Users applying this test to other paper types must be aware that precision and bias may not be the same. (Section 1.2)
⚙️ Key Distinctions and Procedure
The horizontal instrument requires a mechanism to move the specimen relative to the surface upon which it rests. A critical distinction of this test method compared to fiberboard testing (D4521 and D3247) is the timing of the measurement. In this test method for paper, the determination is made on the first slip. In contrast, Test Methods D4521 and D3247 allow the two specimens to slip upon one another three times before the force measurement is determined.
Proper specimen conditioning is governed by Practice D685, and sampling should follow Practice D585 to ensure representative results.
| 🟦 Property | 🎯 Definition | ⚡ Measurement Capability |
|---|---|---|
| Static Coefficient of Friction | Force required to initiate movement | Horizontal Plane (D4917) & Inclined Plane (D4918) |
| Kinetic Coefficient of Friction | Force required to continue movement at uniform speed | Horizontal Plane (D4917) only |
| 📐 Test Parameter | 🔍 D4917 (Uncoated Paper) | 📦 D4521/D3247 (Fiberboard) |
|---|---|---|
| Measurement Slip | First slip | Third slip |
| Measured Outputs | Static & Kinetic COF | Static COF only |
| Primary Application | Uncoated writing & printing paper | Corrugated & solid fiberboard |
📊 Referenced Standards and Conditioning Requirements
Conducting the test properly requires adherence to several supporting ASTM standards. Practice D685 details the standard conditioning of paper and paper products for testing (typically 23 ± 1°C and 50 ± 2% relative humidity). Practice D585 provides the procedures for sampling and accepting a single lot. Familiarity with Terminology D1968 is recommended for understanding the specific nomenclature used.
💡 Distinguishing Standards: This standard is directly related to Test Method D4918 (Inclined Plane) for static COF and Test Methods D4521/D3247 (Fiberboard) for static COF. It uniquely bridges the measurement of static and kinetic friction within a single horizontal plane apparatus specifically for paper grades.
For those dealing with office papers, Specification D3460 covers white watermarked and unwatermarked bond, reprographic, and laser printer cut-sized office papers, which may be tested under this method.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the key difference between static and kinetic COF in this standard?
Static COF relates to the force required to initiate movement between two surfaces, while kinetic COF relates to the force required to cause continuation of the movement at uniform speed. Both are determined using the horizontal plane procedure described in D4917.
💡 Is this test method suitable for all paper grades?
The precision statement for this test method was developed on uncoated writing and printing papers. While its use is recommended for those grades, it may be used with other paper types. Users must give specific attention to special paper characteristics, understanding that the precision and bias may differ (Section 1.2).
⚡ What distinguishes this test from the inclined plane method (D4918)?
The horizontal plane method (D4917) measures both static and kinetic COF. The inclined plane method (D4918) provides similar results for static COF, but cannot be used for the determination of kinetic COF. The choice depends on available equipment and required measurements (Section 1.5).
📌 How does the test procedure for paper differ from that for corrugated fiberboard?
A critical distinction is the number of slips before measurement. In this test method for paper, the determination is made on the first slip. In Test Methods D4521 and D3247 for corrugated and solid fiberboard, the two specimens are allowed to slip upon one another three times before the force measurement is determined (Section 1.6).