RFP - Rubber Fibres Plastics International 1 | 2009

Only for 12,90 EUR

Numeric simulation of thermal degradation in automotive tyres

von Kevin R.J. Ellwood, John M. Baldwin, Ph.D., David R. Bauer

A finite element kinetic model has been developed to interpret issues related to accelerated ageing of tyres. The model is based on the Basic Autoxidation Scheme and incorporates mass transport limitations related to diffusion of oxygen into the layered elastomer system.

The extent of oxidation is calculated at different locations within the tyre as a function of time and temperature. Results for ageing rates due to thermal oxidation predicted by the model are compared to experimentally derived data such as cross-link density, elongation-to-break, and modulus variation. Comparative results for ageing rates in different regions of the tyre suggest that a reasonable accelerated oven testing temperature range is 60 °C to 70 °C. Additionally, initial results for predicted ageing rates for a rolling tyre are presenting indicating the thermal oxidation plays a large role in tyre ageing.