FPS Testing

Field performance simulation testing, or FPS testing, allows tire manufacturers and product developers to assess real-world tread performance in a controlled laboratory environment. FPS testing replicates realistic road conditions by exposing test samples to an abrasive wheel. FPS testing can be conducted on actual tread samples, as well as prepared rubber compounds. This allows tire manufacturers to quickly test and iterate many tread compound formulations before advancing to on-vehicle testing.

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ACE has invested in the AB-2012 FPS Abrasion Tester, an FPS wear testing system from Ueshima. The AB-2012 is a Lambourn abrasion tester, designed specifically for testing high polymer products such as tires and belts. By controlling tangential force and slip ratio, the FPS tester achieves greater correlation with real-world tire performance. The FPS tester also feeds talc or carborundum grit between the test sample and the abrasive wheel to prevent sample material from smearing across the abrasive surface and affecting the repeatability of wear test results. Tire OEMs and developers can leverage FPS testing data to improve braking performance, abrasion resistance, and energy efficiency when formulating new rubber compounds for tire treads.

In addition to tires, FPS testing can also be valuable for assessing the abrasion resistance of belts, rollers, and other high polymer products and components that encounter abrasive conditions in the field.

ISO 23337—Rubber, vulcanized or thermoplastic—Determination of abrasion resistance using the Improved Lambourn test machine

ISO 23337 describes a method for assessing the resistance of rubber compounds to abrasion, using a Lambourn abrasion test machine. A disc-shaped sample of the test material and an abrasive wheel are rotated together, though driven by separate mechanisms. The diameter and thickness of the abrasive wheel are determined by the diameter and thickness of the rubber sample. The load applied to the test piece is also variable.

The abrasion resistance index of the rubber material is determined by quantifying the loss of volume of the rubber sample after FPS testing is complete. This allows manufacturers to predict the rate of wear in the field.

FPS Testing from ACE

The dynamic testing lab at ACE offers a wide range of material test capabilities for our valued customers. In addition to abrasion and FPS testing, ACE offers friction testing, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), flex fatigue, and many other rubber testing services designed to meet the complex and ever-changing needs of the tire and rubber industries. With ACE, you can count on the fastest turnaround times in the industry, so you can stay ahead of the competition and innovate at a rapid pace.

Physical Testing

Does your product comply with regulations and match consumer expectations? ACE physical testing capabilities will assure that your final product meet the demands of government regulations, industry standards and customer-specific protocols.

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Analytical Testing

ACE many test capabilities include wet chemistry solutions. Looking to outshine competitors but there is no established ASTM standard? ACE offers custom testing – we set up the test, create a method that meets standards.

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Expert Consulting

A team of agile, highly trained professionals puts ACE in the vanguard of today’s most solution-oriented independent testing labs. Our broad scope for research makes ACE a great partner for preserving product integrity in a competitive industry.

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