STUDIES ON ROLLING RESISTANCE OF SMALL SIZE PNEUMATIC TYRES

Abstract

In view of the recent fuel crises, the rolling resistance has drawn the• interest of researchers world over. Studies have shown that energy dissipated by the tyres can be as high as 25% of the total energy consumed by the vehicle. Considerable work has been done in modelling of pneumatic tyre rolling resistance and in the development of methods for the measurement of rolling resistance in the laboratory. SAE has recommended a laboratory test method for the measurement of rolling resistance, which has been internationally accepted. However, no analytical or experimental studies are available on evaluation of rolling resistance for small size pneumatic tyres used on motor scooters, 3 wheeled vehicles and motor cycles. In the present work, a laboratory test facility as recommended by SAE has been developed and rolling resistance tests are performed on motor scooter tyres. The effect of inflation pressure and normal load on the rolling resistance has also been studied