Relevance of Elastic and Loss Moduli of Tire Components to Tire Energy Losses

Abstract

Abstract This study of energy losses in tires was undertaken to obtain a better understanding of the contributions of tire components, and to relate them more precisely to laboratory measured dynamic properties. Details are given of a general method of analysing total tire energy losses into components due to the tread, sidewall, textile and carcass rubber. The method entails measuring the losses, as determined by rolling resistance experiments, of tires in which the composition of the components has been varied systematically. The results have been correlated to the dynamic properties of the tire components, and the tire parameters, deflection and inflation pressure. The method has been applied to two extreme sizes of tires, 9.00–20 and 2.25–8. The work described in this paper will enable the tire designer and rubber and textile technologist, to predict with greater certainty the effects on tire energy losses of any changes in tire materials and will also give them more guidance in formulating these changes.