With new certification, the Smithers Tire & Wheel Test Center in Ravenna, Ohio, is now able to conduct UNECE (United Nations Economic Commission for Europe) R117 rolling resistance testing.
The UNECE Regulation No. 117 (R11) provides requirements for maximum tire rolling sound emissions, minimum wet grip performance, maximum rolling resistance and conformity of production for tires imported into the European Union. UNECE R117 testing is appropriate for testing the previously mentioned requirements for both passenger car and light truck tires. All tires which meet the requirements outlined in UNECE R117 must comply with EU labeling requirements.
Smithers successfully completed a laboratory alignment for the measurement of tire rolling resistance with the Global Network of Reference Laboratories and was subsequently awarded the UNECE R117 certification.
“At Smithers, we’re highly dedicated to providing testing services that empower our tire industry clients to stay competitive on a global scale,” said Jim Popio, PhD, vice president, Smithers Materials Science and Engineering Division. “With this certification, we can continue to provide the accurate data our clients need to manufacture tires for the European market, here in the USA.”
UNECE R117 also corresponds with ISO 28580, a rolling resistance standard used for the US Environmental Protection Agency’s SmartWay verification to qualify fleet truck tires for fuel efficiency.
