Alcoa aluminum wheels
dissipate heat more effectively than steel disc wheels, according to a joint
test conducted by Goodyear Tyre & Rubber Company and Alcoa Wheel Products.
Buses running at higher speeds with frequent stops showed the greatest
temperature differences. Depending on operating conditions, users may not
experience similar results.
In high-braking temperature situations,
Alcoa aluminum wheels conduct heat away from brake drums faster and allow brake
drums to run cooler than steel wheels. The controlled road test found brake drum
temperatures were 30°C cooler with Alcoa aluminum wheels at high-braking energy
levels. Cooler running brakes also add to tyre life, particularly to the remould
ability of inner dualed tyres.
Note: Road tests are conducted
under specific sets of operating conditions. Temperature levels reached by the
user may be higher or lower, depending on actual operating conditions.
The road test
found tapped bead seat temperatures were 15°C lower for aluminum wheels than for
steel wheels. Lower tyre bead temperatures contribute to longer tyre life and
make radial transit tyres practical in higher brake temperature situations.
