During powder compaction processes friction has an influence on the final shape and properties of components. It is therefore important to understand how the friction influences the compaction process. Since detailed friction measurements of the powder compact-tool interface are rare, simulation models of the powder compaction process often involve a more accurate description of the frictional behaviour. This limits the accuracy of the simulated results. More accurate numerical models can give improved results, especially in regards to the evolution of density and its distribution within the powder compacts. This study is as a step towards more advanced friction models for powder compaction simulations. A universal tribometer has been used to investigate the frictional behaviour of contact interfaces between a carbide counter surface and CaCO3 powder compacts with different densities. Both static and dynamic frictional properties were measured in a variety of conditions to build a fundamental foundation for friction modelling in powder compaction simulations. The results show that increasing the powder compact density decreases the dynamic friction coefficient but that the static friction coefficient remains fairly constant. The measured friction coefficient can be used to improve the simulation of a powder compact process. Also investigated is the change in friction coefficient that occurs in the compaction process when the surfaces are worn such that loose powder appears in the interface between the tool and the powder compact. This behaviour is important to take into account to accurately describe the compaction process. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.