Elcometer 1730 Car Wash Simulator

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This simulator is used to characterise the resistance of coatings against the action of rotating brushes.

During the test, a coated test sample is continuously wetted with a mixture of detergent, water and abrasive powder (alumina) while being attacked by a rotating car wash brush. The superficial damage after a number of rotations is evaluated by measuring the loss of gloss.

The "Car Wash Simulator" meets the specifications of the test methods developed by Renault and Peugeot-Citroën.

Click on the image to see the Elcometer 1730 Car Wash Simulator in action
  • Corrosive resistant material: Only plexiglas, anodised aluminium and stainless steel are used for the construction of the test chamber.
  • Easy access to all parts: The front window can be removed which gives easy access to the test panel holder, the brush and the inside of the test chamber for cleaning.
  • Front window removal protection: Removal of the front window from the apparatus stops the brush rotation automatically.
  • Inclined bottom: Allows quick removal of the used detergent.
  • Stirring paddles positioning system: The detergent/alumina mixture is stirred by paddles at 100rpm (adjustable). The height of the paddles can be changed.
  • Cleaning system: Two sprinklers are positioned at the top of the chamber to spray demineralised water to clean the brush and the inside of the test chamber.
  • Downwards-directed abrasive solution flow: At each point of its path the abrasive solution flow is directed downwards, preventing the alumina from settling.
  • The brush fibres adapter: A holder for the bundles of fibres. Preparing the brushes is as easy as 1, 2, 3. There are three basic actions: bundling the fibres, inserting the bundle into the adapter, cutting the fibres to length. By using this adapter a lot of time is saved.
  • Adaptable: The brush filaments can be replaced by other types of material for simulating various washing techniques.