Experimental study of winter tyre usage according to tread depth and temperature in vehicle braking performance

Abstract

The study was aimed at identifying the problems of using winter tyres according to the vehicle braking performance. Due to the common problem of using second-hand winter tyres during the summer season, the tyre tread depth and temperature were chosen as the main indicators of the study. The winter mix tyres are distinguished by the suitability for operation at low temperatures; however, if the operation of such tyres is extended during the warm season, high ambient temperature and the road pavement temperature during extreme braking deteriorate the tyre contact properties. This article presents the results of thermodynamic measurements of the vehicle’s braking performance and the tread surface of abruptly braked winter tyre. To determine the relative slip at different ambient temperatures and the tread depth of the braked tyre, the dynamic wheel radius and the angular velocity were measured during the study. The results obtained according to the main physical parameters determining the tyre contact present the objective assessment of the negative use of winter tyres during the warm season. Conclusions are useful in not only promoting the responsible choice of the tyre type, but also introduction of potential limitations and development of subsequent tyre and automotive safety, in order to avoid traffic accidents.