STUDY OF AERODYNAMIC DRAG REDUCTION ON A FULL-SCALE TRACTOR-TRAILER

Aerodynamic drag tests were performed on a tractor-trailer combination using the coast-down method on a smooth, nearly level runway. The tests included an investigation of drag reduction obtained with add-on devices that are commercially available or under development. The tests covered tractor-trailer speeds ranging from approximately 35 to 65 miles per hour and included fuel consumption measurements. The study shows the effects of the various add-on devices on the aerodynamic drag, and for some devices on the fuel consumption. Results from a simulation of fuel consumption tests using a computer program are also included.

• Corporate Authors:

  National Aeronautics and Space Administration

  Flight Research Center
  Edwards AFB, CA  United States  93523

  Transportation Systems Center

  55 Broadway, Kendall Square
  Cambridge, MA  United States  02142
• Authors:
  • Steers, L L
  • Montoya, L C
• Publication Date: 1976-4

Media Info

• Pagination: 57 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Aerodynamics; Airport runways; Data collection; Drag; Dynamic tests; Fuel consumption; Motor vehicles; Simulation; Speed; Tractor trailer combinations; Trailers; Truck tractors; Velocity
• Old TRIS Terms: Aerodynamic configurations
• Subject Areas: Energy; Highways; Motor Carriers; Pavements; Safety and Human Factors;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00137310
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Technical Information Service
• Report/Paper Numbers: DOT-TSC-OST-76-13 Final Rpt.
• Contract Numbers: DOT/TSC-RA-74-31
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Sep 16 1977 12:00AM