Airport Surface Friction Tester (ASFT) - Runway Friction Testers

Airport Surface Friction Tester (ASFT) is a high-tech company that has been working with different surface friction measuring instruments since 1991. ASFT products are fully approved by FAA, ICAO, and UK CAA CAP683 for unrestricted operation on aerodromes.

ASFT is a world-leading manufacturer of different continuous friction measuring equipment (CFME) which was approached by Saab Automobile and General Motors (GM) to manufacture and market the original Saab surface friction tester (SFT). This was a challenge that ASFT took on with great success.

Today the ASFT Saab SFT (the original SFT) is a well-proven CFME that is known around the world for being user friendly and reliable when it is needed the most. It has been equipped with the latest ASFT Mk IV rear-axle and computer system. These systems have been developed with the utmost care, using feedback given from more than 250 users around the world.

Road and airport CFME trailer

A trailer called T-10 was also launched to meet the demands of smaller airports and road authorities. The T-10 trailer does not require any permanent installations, so any towing vehicle can be used within 1min's notice.

The ASFT computer system within the T-10 includes measurement computer, main computer with printer and an operator's panel with only six keys, to simplify the handling of the system.

The computer is pre-programmed for measurement and presentation in accordance with ICAO, FAA and CAP 683. The computer system controls the measuring procedure and presents the results on the computer display and / or a paper printout.

The ICAO and FAA clearly state that a CFME must have a self-watering system. The ASFT self-watering system sprays a water layer on the runway surface in front of the measuring wheel. The tank volume is sufficient for measuring more than 10,000m of runway with a water layer depth of 1mm (0.04in).

CFME equipment upgrades

In addition, the ASFT offers upgrades for old friction testers to the latest rear-axle and computer system. This is a great opportunity to prolong the life expectancy of an old CFME, and get the most out of the investment. The original SFTs have served the aviation and road industry for more then 30 years, and thanks to ASFT they will continue to excel in the future as well.

CFME integrated vehicles

ASFT have also taken the successful SFT concept and installed it into a range of different host vehicles, such as the Ford 500, Ford Galaxy and Volkswagen Sharan.