Abstract: The test rig for tire traction on icy and snowy pavements is developed based on the existing static tire test rig for dry pavement. The cornering behavior of two pieces of radial tires with the same type and the same tread compounds but different tread patterns is investigated on the above two test rigs. Discussions are focused on the effects of ice surface temperature, normal load, inflation pressure and tire tread patterns on cornering behavior of a tire on ice and on dry pavements. The results showed that the tendencies of tire cornering force varied with slip angle on cold ice are similar to that of a tire on dry pavement, and different tread patterns can affect the cornering behavior of a tire, especially for a tire on ice. It is suggested that lowering inflation pressure to the accepted extent will be benefit for controllability and stability of an automotive.

Key words: Tire, Cornering behavior, Dry pavement, Icy pavement, Test rig