Smithers is able to conduct tire impact testing under multiple conditions. Tires are run on a road wheel and impacts are introduced at specific intervals to record impact response. Our capabilities include both low and high-speed options as well as multiple cleat options on the road wheel.
In addition to utilizing the SAE J2730 testing protocol, test steps can be catered to the customer’s request. Different customizations can be made to the test matrix as well as the hardware, such as cleat sizes and shapes, to fit customer requirements. Test matrices can also be modified to suit customer requirements. For example, commercially available tire models require only 3 speeds to quantify the model parameters, but Smithers can modify the speed inputs based on continuously increasing model fitting capabilities (up to 130kph). Post-processing methods can be customized, allowing customers to get exactly what they want in different available formats.
Dynamic Impact or Cleat Testing
This type of testing involves the placement of cleats or Belgian blocks on the surface of a 67” roadwheel. The cleats impact the tire on each revolution to replicate highway joints and provide impact response data to understand the durability of the tire. Cleat testing can be done at low or high speeds. In addition, accelerated aging can be introduced prior to testing to understand tire durability performance after simulated heat exposure. Tests are generally run to a certain number of hours or to failureDynamic Cleat Testing for Tire Modeling
High-speed cleat testing is an essential step in the tire validation process as it relates to understanding vehicle dynamics and road interactions. By simulating real-world conditions and pushing tires to their limits, engineers can gather accurate data and identify areas for improvement in tire design. This not only results in higher consumer satisfaction but also allows for the optimization of manufacturing processes to ensure consistent and high-quality production.In addition to utilizing the SAE J2730 testing protocol, test steps can be catered to the customer’s request. Different customizations can be made to the test matrix as well as the hardware, such as cleat sizes and shapes, to fit customer requirements. Test matrices can also be modified to suit customer requirements. For example, commercially available tire models require only 3 speeds to quantify the model parameters, but Smithers can modify the speed inputs based on continuously increasing model fitting capabilities (up to 130kph). Post-processing methods can be customized, allowing customers to get exactly what they want in different available formats.
Cornstalk Impact Testing
The cornstalk impact test is designed to evaluate the performance and endurance of agricultural tire sidewalls after being repetitively impacted. The test can also be used to evaluate other styles of off-road tires used in various applications.- 6PPD Alternative Development
- Accelerated Tire Aging
- Custom Product Displays
- Durability and Endurance Testing
- Electric Vehicle (EV) Tires
- Fleet Fuel Efficiency Analysis
- Force and Moment Testing
- Government Regulatory Tire Testing
- High-Speed Uniformity Testing
- Inflation Pressure Loss Rate (IPLR)
- Laboratory Tire Analysis
- Laser Tread Profilometry (CTWIST)
- OEM Design Validation
- OTR Tire Testing
- PRAT and RCF
- Rolling Resistance Testing
- Simulated On-Vehicle Accelerated Tire Testing
- Snow and Ice Traction
- Stiffness/Spring Rate Measurement
- Subjective Ride and Handling
- Tire Benchmarking
- Tire Buffing
- Tire Footprint Testing
- Tire Impact Testing
- Tire Labeling Testing
- Tire Modeling and Characterization
- Tire Proving Grounds
- Tire Quality Control Program
- Tire Shearography
- Vertical Load Testing
- Virtual Tire Lab