Dynamometer Simulation of Aircraft Tire Wear Due to Braking

Laboratory and aircraft flight testing indicates that braking is the primary driver of tire wear on tactical aircraft, and that steps can be taken to significantly improve the tire wear performance. The effects of numerous other factors including aircraft characteristics, runway surface texture, tire tread compound, tire pressure, and environmental conditions were also evaluated under the Air Force’s Improved Tire Life and Extended Life Tire programs. Laboratory testing of tire wear performance using the new 168i internal roadwheel dynamometer was successfully demonstrated.