Smithers invests in high-speed uniformity testing machine
Akron, OH – Smithers announces the addition of a high-speed uniformity (HSU) machine. The ZF HSU 5.3 machine will be installed at the Smithers Tire and Wheel Test Center in Ravenna, Ohio and is expected to be fully operational by January 2022.
High-speed uniformity and cleat testing measures and evaluates tire performance as it relates to noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). HSU testing enables tire developers to quickly assess how changes to a tire design or manufacturing will impact vehicle and ride characteristics. These evaluations play a significant role in the driving experience and overall comfort of the consumer, which means it is critical for OEMs to optimize these characteristics for the sake of consumer satisfaction and loyalty.
“The tire industry is changing rapidly in response to a myriad of disruptions, one of which is growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs). There are two specific challenges associated with EVs that testing associated with an HSU machine can help OEMs address,” said Michael Nehls, General Manager, Smithers Tire and Wheel Test Center. “First, EVs are quieter than cars with internal combustion engines, which means EV drivers are more sensitive to the sounds and vibrations of normal operation. Second, EVs are heavy. That extra weight can cause flat spotting in EV tires, which translates to more noise and vibration while driving. This new HSU machine allows us to objectively assess these challenges in a laboratory setting so our clients can evaluate their development process and audit the manufacturing process.”
The HSU machine measures high-speed uniformity values at speeds of up to 400 kilometers or 250 miles per hour. It also offers a broad measuring frequency, with its highest natural frequency reaching 320Hz. Its full capabilities include: High- and low-speed uniformity testing; Rolling resistance testing; Cleat testing for tire modeling; Transient impact response; RPM and RPK measurement; Auto balancing.
The machine can support standardized test protocols, such as SAE J1269, SE J2453, ISO, and ASTM standards, and OEM specifications.
“Smithers has been providing accurate testing data to our clients in the tire industry for nearly a century, and we choose all our capability investments based on their needs,” said Jim Popio, Vice President, Smithers Materials Science and Engineering Division. “By being the first independent laboratory in North America to invest in this new HSU machine, Smithers can uphold our promise to provide critical testing capacity and capabilities to our clients so they can keep pace with R&D efforts and evolving demands.”
The Smithers Tire and Wheel Test Center is equipped with a full suite of complementary test capabilities to support HSU testing, such as aging ovens for flat spot testing. The lab offers a broad range of testing services for measuring performance, durability, and other characteristics of passenger car, light truck, agricultural, truck, off-the-road (OTR), and specialty tires.