EN sole bending tester

The EN Sole Bending Tester is designed to assess the bending resistance and zigzag durability of footwear soles made from rubber, EVA, and similar materials. By performing a controlled 90-degree flexing motion, the tester evaluates the sole’s resistance to flex cracking and the propagation of incisions, providing essential data for footwear durability assessment.

Application

(1)Bending resistance testing of rubber, EVA, PU, and thermoplastic soles.

(2)Assessment of zigzag resistance and flex cracking in work boots, safety shoes, athletic shoes, and casual footwear.

(3)Quality control in footwear manufacturing for durability verification.

(4)Research and development of sole materials and composite layers for enhanced lifespan.

(5)Laboratory evaluation for compliance with international footwear testing standards.

(6)Multiple sole testing for batch consistency and production optimization.

Standards

(1)SATRA TM161 — Testing Methods for Footwear Flexing Resistance

(2)GB/T 2099-2007 — Rubber and EVA Sole Testing Standard

(3)EN ISO 20344:2011 — Personal Protective Equipment — Test Methods for Footwear

(4)EN ISO 17707 — Footwear — Determination of Resistance to Flex Cracking

(5)DIN 53543 — Rubber and Elastomer Bending Fatigue Test

(6)ASTM F2772 — Footwear Sole Flex Test Method

Product Features

(1)Flexing mechanism performs repeated 90° bending of the sole specimen.

(2)Clamping system secures the sole during testing to ensure consistent flexing.

(3)Supports 1 or 3 simultaneous testing stations to increase throughput.

(4)Adjustable flexing speed from 5 to 150 cycles per minute.

(5)One-key self-positioning function for automated sample installation.

(6)Counter records the total number of flexing cycles.

(7)Zigzag shaft diameter: 30 mm for precise bending simulation.

(8)Inductive protective cover ensures operator safety.

(9)Robust construction for continuous laboratory or production line operation.

Technical Parameters

Accessories

(1)Clamping fixtures for single and multiple sole stations

(2)Zigzag shafts for bending mechanism

(3)Protective covers with inductive safety interlocks

Test Procedures

(1)Prepare and install the sole specimen in the designated clamping fixture.

(2)Engage the one-key self-positioning function for automated alignment.

(3)Set the desired flexing speed (5–150 cpm) and number of cycles.

(4)Activate the flexing mechanism to perform repeated 90° bending.

(5)Monitor the cycle counter to track total flexing cycles.

(6)Observe the sole for signs of cracking or zigzag failure.

(7)Record results for durability and compliance evaluation.

Maintenance Information

(1)Regularly clean the clamping fixtures and zigzag shafts to remove debris.

(2)Inspect the protective cover and interlock mechanism before each use.

(3)Lubricate moving parts periodically to ensure smooth operation.

(4)Check electrical connections and power supply for stability.

(5)Store the tester in a dry environment to prevent corrosion and mechanical wear.