Best Smoothness Tester For Paper Smoothness Detection In Surface Roughness Testing

Best Smoothness Tester for Paper Surface Roughness Testing in Laboratories

Introduction of the ST-01 Smoothness Tester

The ST-01 Smoothness Tester is a state-of-the-art instrument designed specifically for measuring the surface smoothness of paper and board. Using the Bekk Method, this Smoothness Tester provides highly accurate results, making it ideal for laboratory settings where precision is paramount. Smoothness testing is critical for evaluating the quality and printability of paper, ensuring the material meets industry standards for surface flatness and texture uniformity.

In the packaging, food, medicine, beverage, and academic sectors, ensuring the right smoothness level of paper products plays a significant role in determining the overall quality of printed materials. The ST-01 Smoothness Tester excels in its accuracy and ease of use, making it a must-have for manufacturers and quality control laboratories.

Why Smoothness Matters

Smoothness is a crucial metric used to assess the surface texture of paper and board. It refers to the degree of unevenness on the material's surface and plays a vital role in determining the quality of printing. The Smoothness Tester measures the time required for a specific volume of air to flow through the contact surface between the sample and an annular surface, under controlled conditions. This is measured in seconds (s), with longer times indicating higher smoothness levels.

Generally, the smoother the surface of the paper, the better the print quality. High smoothness allows for even ink distribution, creating sharper images and text. By using the ST-01 Smoothness Tester, manufacturers can ensure that their paper products meet the stringent demands of the printing industry and enhance the end-user experience.

The Bekk Smoothness Method Explained

The Bekk smoothness test is a globally recognized standard for determining the smoothness of paper and board. The method measures the time, in seconds, for a defined quantity of air to pass through the gap between the paper sample and a plane ring-shaped surface under specific pressure conditions. The longer it takes for the air to pass, the smoother the paper surface is deemed to be.

Key Features of the ST-01 Smoothness Tester

1. One-Button Operation: Simplifies testing by eliminating the need for complex pressure settings, making it easy to use for operators of all skill levels.
2. Precision Stepper Motor and Load Sensor: Ensures smooth and impact-free paper pressing with precise pressure control, boasting a 100±0.5 kPa accuracy level.
3. Advanced 32-bit ARM Processor: This high-speed CPU increases processing speeds, ensuring faster and more accurate calculations, reducing downtime during testing.
4. Large 7-Inch Color Touch Screen: Provides clear, intuitive operation, making it easy to navigate through the different testing procedures and view results.
5. Automatic Range Detection: The Smoothness Tester automatically identifies the appropriate range for each tested sample, improving test accuracy.
6. Embedded Thermal Micro Printer: Allows for on-the-spot printing of results, enhancing documentation and reporting efficiency.
7. Oil-Free Vacuum Pumps: The ST-01 Smoothness Tester is equipped with high-quality, imported oil-free vacuum pumps that require no maintenance, significantly reducing operating costs.

Measurement Principle

The ST-01 Smoothness Tester works by placing a paper or board sample on a glass plate and applying a specified pressure. A partial vacuum is then created to draw atmospheric air through the contact surface, and the instrument measures the time required for the vacuum to change within a specified range. This process provides an accurate measure of the sample's smoothness, with longer times indicating a smoother surface.

Advantages of Using the ST-01 Smoothness Tester

1. User-Friendly: One-button operation makes the Smoothness Tester extremely easy to use, with no need for complex manual adjustments.
2. Accurate and Reliable: Thanks to its precision stepper motor and load sensor, the ST-01 Smoothness Tester delivers accurate and repeatable results.
3. Advanced Technology: The integration of a 32-bit ARM processor and automatic airflow detection technology ensures the highest standards of performance.
4. Cost-Efficient: With its oil-free vacuum pumps and embedded printer, the ST-01 Smoothness Tester offers a low-maintenance solution for testing laboratories.
5. Meets International Standards: The ST-01 Smoothness Tester complies with major international standards such as GB/T 456-2002, ISO 5627-1995, QB/T1665, and TAPPI T479, ensuring it can be used in a variety of global industries.

Specifications

• Test Area: (10±0.05) cm²
• Measuring Range: (1-9999)S, (1-15)S, (15～300)S, (300～9999)S, with automatic range switching
• Vacuum Volume: Large Vacuum 380±1ml; Small Vacuum 38±1ml
• Vacuum Range:
  • I Gear: 50.66kPa -> 29.33kPa
  • II Gear: 50.66kPa -> 48kPa
  • III Gear: 50.66kPa -> 48kPa
• Test Pressure: (100±2) kPa (automatic pressure)
• Dimensions: 380x360x465 mm
• Power Supply: AC 220V 50Hz

Application Industries

The ST-01 Smoothness Tester is used widely across various industries, including:

• Packaging: Ensuring the surface of packaging materials is smooth enough for high-quality printing.
• Food & Beverage: Paper used in food and beverage packaging must meet strict surface smoothness standards to maintain product quality.
• Pharmaceutical: In the pharmaceutical industry, paper and board materials used in packaging must undergo thorough testing to ensure the integrity of product labels.
• Education & Research: Colleges and laboratories use the ST-01 Smoothness Tester for educational purposes and research on material properties.

Standards Compliance

The ST-01 Smoothness Tester adheres to the following international standards:

• GB/T 456-2002: Paper and board determination of smoothness (Bekk method)
• ISO 5627-1995: Paper and board determination of smoothness (Bekk method)
• QB/T1665: Paper and board tester of smoothness
• TAPPI T479: Smoothness of paper (Bekk method)

Conclusion

The ST-01 Smoothness Tester is a powerful, reliable, and user-friendly instrument that ensures precise testing of paper and board surface smoothness. With its advanced technology, international standard compliance, and high level of accuracy, the ST-01 Smoothness Tester is an essential tool for any laboratory involved in material quality control, particularly in the packaging, food, pharmaceutical, and academic sectors.

By investing in the ST-01 Smoothness Tester, laboratories and manufacturers can significantly improve the quality of their products, ensuring better printing results, compliance with international standards, and enhanced product integrity.