How does the manufacturer test the table’s resistance to damage from moving or dragging?

Manufacturers employ systematic laboratory testing to evaluate a table's resistance to damage caused by movement and dragging, a critical aspect of furniture durability assessment. Standardized procedures simulate real-world stresses to ensure product longevity.

A primary method is the controlled drag test. Engineers place standardized weights on the table surface and use a mechanical arm to drag it across various flooring surfaces—tile, hardwood, carpet—for a set number of cycles. Post-test analysis measures scratch depth, finish wear, and structural integrity. For scratch resistance, a calibrated scratching device with different tip materials (like steel or plastic) applies measured force to the surface, after which technicians visually and digitally assess the damage against industry scales like the Mohs hardness test.

Impact resistance from accidental bumps during moves is tested using pendulum or drop tests. A weighted pendulum swings into the table leg or edge, or a standardized object is dropped onto the surface. Sensors measure the energy absorption and any resulting deformation. Leg and joint stability are evaluated through cyclic load and twist tests, simulating the stresses of lifting and shifting.

Advanced manufacturers use spectroscopic analysis to examine the finish coating's molecular integrity before and after stress tests. Data from all tests are compiled to assign a durability rating, guiding design improvements in materials, joinery, and protective finishes. This rigorous protocol ensures tables withstand daily use and moving hazards, providing consumers with reliable, long-lasting furniture.