Wheel Testing and Field Correlation — Present and Future

This paper discusses factors considered in establishing wheel test methods and describes the tests performed. It also points out that there are positive correlations between laboratory tests, customer’s road tests, and the ultimate evaluation -- customer’s service experiences.

Test methods are continually being reviewed. Some of the future plans for improving “wheel evaluations” are described. As an example, wheel transducers are being developed that will measure the dynamic radial and lateral components of wheel loads. This will allow more accurate tests to be established which will duplicate these loads in the laboratory. Once the loads are known, stress analysis techniques and the computer can be used in wheel design.

The importance of proper maintenance to obtain good wheel life is also discussed.