VDA 230-206 Stick-Slip (accredited)

Our test laboratory carries out tests according to VDA 230-206 for the investigation of stick-slip behaviour of material pairings in automotive interiors. The method is used to evaluate friction and sliding processes between two material surfaces, in particular with regard to jerky stick-slip transitions that may be perceived in practice as squeaking, creaking or other noise phenomena. The test is primarily applied to material combinations in automotive interiors where relative movements between surfaces may occur.

VDA 230-206 is a manufacturer-specific test specification issued by the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) and is used, among other things, to assess pairings such as leather against leather, artificial leather against artificial leather or plastic against plastic. It complements tribological tests for friction and noise tendency of interior materials and is relevant for components with contact and sliding movements in vehicle interiors, such as seating systems, trim parts or armrests.

Test principle and procedure

For testing, two defined material specimens are mounted as a pairing in a test fixture and moved against each other under controlled conditions. A defined normal force is applied and the relative motion is performed at a constant speed. During the sliding process, friction force profiles are recorded and characteristic stick-slip events are identified. Based on the measured data, parameters are derived to evaluate friction and sliding behaviour as well as the tendency toward jerky motion.

The results are assessed in the context of comparable material pairings and are used for material selection, component optimisation and the reduction of noise and comfort-related issues in automotive interiors.

Here you will also find an overview of our range of VDA tests and specifications.