Published: 8/29/2018

Smithers announced the addition of new wheel testing capabilities at its Tire and Wheel Test Center in Ravenna, Ohio. The new machinery is currently operational and can test most car, SUV, and light truck wheels in the passenger vehicle market.

Smithers is able to test wheels up to 24”x13” with a machine load rating of 5,000 ft/lb. A PLC computer controls the load and speed to be applied during testing periods, as well as monitoring the deflection.

“Recent trends toward larger wheel sizes on SUVs and trucks have created a need for testing of larger diameter wheels,” said Dr. Jim Popio, Vice President - North America, Smithers. “This new machine addresses the shift in the wheel market by accommodating 24-inch wheels and using more sophisticated data controls in product analysis for our clients.”

All new bearings and controls will also benefit Smithers’ clients, as the laboratory performs precisely controlled and repeatable wheel testing to meet exact specifications. Tests conducted by Smithers can help OEMs and aftermarket manufacturers better understand the life and performance of the wheel, their liability positions, and their warranty potential.