Smithers Rapra, a global provider of rubber, plastics and composites testing, recently provided insight and training at the Tire Technology Training Course, organized by The Rubber Institute of Chemical Industry and Engineering Society of China and the Beijing University of Chemical Technology. Henry He, lead test engineer at Smithers Rapra’s Suzhou Tire and Wheel Testing Laboratory, presented and discussed a general overview of various tire testing techniques as well as government regulatory requirements.
“Working globally across the tire industry gives us a broad perspective on the latest in tire technology and testing techniques,” said Derek Read, general manager – Smithers Rapra China. “Through his experience in the tire and wheel industries, Henry was able to provide engineers with insight into tire testing and best practices in how to utilize the data for development programs.”
Smithers Rapra’s presentations focused primarily on tire testing technologies and methodologies such as durability, rolling resistance, aging and tread wear, as well as force and moment evaluations. Also covered were methods required for both Chinese and EU tire labeling standards and various national regulations around the world. The training outlined key regulatory testing considerations for tire manufacturers when developing their next generation of passenger and light truck tires.
“Understanding the performance of tires under laboratory test conditions is critical in determining their influence on the ride, handling and safety of vehicles,” said He. “I certainly appreciate the invitation to speak to the industry’s chemists and engineers about the important role tire testing has in the successful introduction of their new products to the global market.”
Smithers Rapra operates laboratories in North America, Europe and China, covering a wide variety of testing and consulting services from material chemistry and product durability testing, to tire, wheel and winter testing. Smithers’ global network of ISO 17025 accredited tire test laboratories perform a wide variety of SAE, ASTM, ISO, UNECE and EC tests supporting raw material suppliers, tire manufacturers and automotive OEMs.
