Friction Testing

Friction Testing

The Critical Role of Friction Testing in Airfield Safety

Friction testing is vital in ensuring aircraft safety during landing and takeoff. Hi-Lite understands the importance of maintaining adequate runway friction levels to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of passengers and crew.

Airplanes rely on the friction between the runway surface and their tires to land the aircraft safely. However, over time, the skid resistance of runway pavement can deteriorate due to various factors, including weathering, usage, aging, and contaminants. This deterioration can lead to a dangerous friction loss, making the touch-down zone slippery and hazardous.

The Impact of Contaminants on Runway Friction

One of the most persistent contaminant problems on runways is the deposit of rubber from the tires of landing jet aircraft. These rubber deposits can cause a significant loss of aircraft braking capability and directional control, mainly when runways are wet. Hi-Lite recognizes the importance of removing these contaminants to maintain proper runway friction levels.

Maintaining Friction Levels and Runway Traction

The only way to maintain friction levels and runway traction to industry standards is through contaminant removal and regular friction testing. By removing rubber and other contaminants from the runway surface, airports can ensure that their runways remain safe for aircraft operations. Friction testing, in turn, provides a quantitative measure of the runway's skid resistance, allowing airport authorities to make informed decisions about maintenance and repair needs.

The Importance of Regular Friction Testing

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued recommendations that airports undertake regularly scheduled friction testing to ensure the safety of their runways. Hi-Lite is well-equipped to perform friction testing using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques.

Hi-Lite's Friction Testing Capabilities

Hi-Lite's Friction Tester, acquired from the Airport Surface Friction Tester (ASFT), is a proven and reliable tool for accurately recording pavement skid resistance in wet and dry conditions. This equipment is successfully used to test friction at various airports worldwide, providing airport authorities with the data they need to make informed decisions about airfield pavement maintenance.

Our experienced technicians are trained in properly using the Friction Tester and can provide comprehensive friction testing services as part of our airfield pavement management solutions. By partnering with Hi-Lite for your friction testing needs, you can rest assured that your runways will be thoroughly evaluated and maintained to the highest safety standards.

The Benefits of Partnering with Hi-Lite for Friction Testing

When you choose Hi-Lite Airfield Services for your friction testing needs, you benefit from our extensive experience and expertise. Our team understands the unique challenges and requirements of maintaining safe and efficient runway surfaces, and we are committed to providing the highest quality services to our clients.

We offer comprehensive services designed to keep your runways in top condition, including rubber removal, surface preparation, marking application, and friction testing. By partnering with Hi-Lite, you can streamline your airfield maintenance operations and ensure that your runways are always safe and compliant with industry standards.

Schedule Your Friction Testing with Hi-Lite Today

Don't wait until it's too late to address the safety of your runways. Contact Hi-Lite Airfield Services today to schedule your friction testing and learn more about our comprehensive airfield pavement maintenance services. Our knowledgeable staff will be happy to discuss your needs and provide a customized solution tailored to your airfield's requirements.

Request a quote now and take the first step towards ensuring the safety and efficiency of your runway operations.

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