Other test types

There are a range of additional texture test types that measure specialist material behaviours such as friction, abrasion, disintegration, scoopability, and combability. Using customised attachments and programmable sequences in Exponent Connect software, a Texture Analyser can replicate consumer handling or mechanical stress, providing quantitative data beyond standard compression or tension tests. These tests are particularly valuable when you need to mimic consumer use or assess product handling behaviour.

Using Exponent Connect software, operators can sequence actions or reorient the instrument to perform non-vertical motions, such as horizontal friction measurement or dynamic multi-stage actions. This flexibility allows Stable Micro Systems instruments to measure almost any mechanical characteristic relevant to product performance.

Friction and slip resistance

Using the Horizontal Friction System or Friction Rig, surface friction between materials – such as film-on-film, packaging layers, or coated tablets – can be quantified. Data includes static and dynamic friction coefficients, useful for packaging design or lubricity studies.

Abrasion and wear

The Abrasion Test Rig measures resistance to surface wear or roughness, ideal for coatings, food crusts, or cosmetic films. This helps quantify durability and surface integrity.

Disintegration

With the Tablet Disintegration Rig, the time or force required for a solid dosage form or structured product to break apart is measured. This is particularly relevant in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications.

Scoopability

Fixtures such as the Ice Cream Scoop Rig or Bread V Squeeze Rig assess the force required to scoop, spread or extract semi-solids, providing insight into consumer usability and temperature effects.

Combability and Suppleness

The Hair Combing Rig and Hair Suppleness Rig measure the ease with which fibres or strands pass through a comb or deform under bending stress, supporting formulation optimisation in personal care and cosmetics products.

Creating custom test solutions

Use these methods when conventional compression or tension tests do not represent the real-world behaviour of your product. They are ideal for:

• Simulating consumer handling or sensory interaction
• Quantifying wear or fatigue properties
• Measuring usability characteristics (scoopability, combability)
• Evaluating frictional behaviour in packaging or coatings

ASTM D1894 – Comparison of stiction and friction of two packaging sheet types using a Friction Rig.