The centre designed and built its first prototype laboratory-based slip testing rig 30 years ago and the company’s TM144 test method was developed for use with it.

Original software for the rig (designated STM 603) was established in 1999 and enabled the company to measure slip resistance with consistent accuracy. However, the introduction of new slip standards has since necessitated new developments. As a result the company decided to re-write its slipMASTER software, which now takes into account changes and is said to be simpler to use, offering greater control of the machine’s operating speeds and forces of slip. The company currently operates four STM603s in its new footwear testing laboratory.

It will also showcase a new synthetic material cutting lay plan module for its SATRASumm system at the event. This upper material management system was first launched more than 20 years ago and is now regularly used in more than 300 member companies.