Modelling and prediction of tyre–snow interaction using finite element analysis–smoothed particle hydrodynamics techniques

This paper focuses on the modelling and prediction of truck tyre–snow interaction to compute tyre motion resistance coefficient. The off-road truck tyre size 315/80R22.5 is modelled using finite element analysis and validated in static and dynamic response against published measured data. The snow is modelled using smoothed particle hydrodynamics technique and hydrodynamic-elastic-plastic material and then calibrated against physical measurements provided by published terramechanics data. The contact algorithm implemented is the node-symmetric node-to-segment contact with edge treatment. The rolling resistance coefficient is also known as the motion resistance coefficient of the truck tyre–snow interaction and is computed for several operating conditions including the vertical load, inflation pressure, tyre longitudinal speed, and snow depth. The influence of the above-mentioned operating conditions on the truck tyre motion resistance coefficient is examined and discussed.

Influence of the Modification of Ground Truck Tyres as an Additive on the Properties of a Truck Tread Compound

Commercially available ground tyre rubber (GTR) made exclusively from post-consumer truck tyres was mixed into a typical truck tyre tread compound. As already shown in a previous study, this leads to a distinct deterioration in properties. The goal of the present investigation was to minimise these property losses through modification of the GTR in terms of processing methods. Modification methods already documented in the literature were used, e.g. application of sulphur and crosslinking agents to the GTR and the use of trans-polyoctenamer as well as liquid polymers, which in principle provide the potential for crosslinking of the GTR and polymer matrix through the availability of double bonds. For some methods of modification, small improvements are observed in comparison with the unmodified GTR. However, none of the GTR modifications reaches the level of the reference compound without GTR. An economic estimate for the modification with the highest potential for technical success shows that, in practice, considerable costs must be expected.