ASTM F1046-21
(Guide)Standard Guide for Preparing Artificially Worn Passenger and Light Truck Tires for Testing
Standard Guide for Preparing Artificially Worn Passenger and Light Truck Tires for Testing
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Tires having reduced groove depth are required in some tire tests to determine changes in performance as a tire wears in service. This guide describes the preparation of artificially worn tires. This guide is not meant to replace the development of worn tires through over-the-road travel when naturally worn tires are required. Further refinements of these techniques may be made with increased field experience.
5.2 The amount of tread rubber to be removed (groove depth reduction) and the final surface texture are selected according to the requirements of a particular testing program.
5.3 The type of test program determines the actual tolerance necessary on the final groove depth. For example, snow traction will require very close control of the final groove depth while vehicle handling tests can accommodate a wider tolerance on the final groove depth.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide outlines the preparation of artificially worn tires by tread rubber removal (cutting or grinding, or both) for subsequent performance testing. The purpose is to permit the preparation of test tires with a uniformly reduced tread groove depth and tread geometry that will yield repeatable test results while avoiding the time-consuming and costly over-the-road natural wearing of tires.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 31-Aug-2021
- Technical Committee
- F09 - Tires
- Drafting Committee
- F09.20 - Vehicular Testing
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2013
- Effective Date
- 15-Jun-2009
- Refers
ASTM F421-07 - Standard Test Method for Measuring Groove and Void Depth in Passenger Car Tires - Effective Date
- 01-Aug-2007
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2003
- Effective Date
- 10-May-2000
- Refers
ASTM F421-00 - Standard Test Method for Measuring Groove and Void Depth in Passenger Car Tires - Effective Date
- 10-May-2000
- Effective Date
- 10-Apr-1999
Overview
ASTM F1046-21: Standard Guide for Preparing Artificially Worn Passenger and Light Truck Tires for Testing provides a systematic approach for preparing tires with reduced tread groove depth for laboratory and field testing. The guide outlines a method for rubber removal-using cutting or grinding-to simulate tire wear. By enabling the production of uniformly worn test tires, this standard ensures repeatable test results without the need for time-consuming and expensive road wear processes. ASTM F1046-21 is widely referenced in tire development, quality assurance, and safety testing, supporting regulatory compliance and research on tire performance as tread wear progresses.
Key Topics
- Artificial Tire Wear Simulation: Techniques for controlled removal of tread rubber, including cutting and grinding, to replicate specific levels of groove depth reduction.
- Measurement and Documentation: Detailed procedures for measuring groove and tread depth before and after tread removal, often using a tread depth gauge in accordance with ASTM F421.
- Surface Preparation and Break-In: Processes for smoothing the tire surface post-grinding and optional vehicle break-in operations to further simulate the texture of natural wear.
- Tolerance Specifications: Guidance on groove depth tolerances based on testing needs, such as closer tolerances for snow traction versus more relaxed tolerances for handling tests.
- Photographic Records: Documentation practices for visually recording the final tread surface condition and geometry for quality control and reproducibility.
- Safety and Compliance: Emphasis on establishing procedures addressing safety, health, and environmental considerations during tire preparation.
Applications
ASTM F1046-21 is essential in several practical scenarios:
- Tire Performance Testing: Enables laboratories and manufacturers to evaluate changes in performance (traction, handling, wear indicators) of both passenger car and light truck tires as the tread wears.
- Regulatory Compliance: Supports standardized testing regimes required by safety and performance regulations, including replicated wear states for certification trials.
- Comparative Testing: Provides a uniform approach for preparing tires, enabling consistent comparisons between different tire designs, tread compounds, or brands under equivalent worn conditions.
- Product Development and Quality Assurance: Allows tire developers and quality engineers to investigate performance degradation due to tread wear, helping guide design improvements or validate durability claims.
- Consumer Safety Research: Facilitates studies on the impact of worn tread on vehicle safety, such as wet grip, hydroplaning, and braking performance.
Related Standards
To ensure comprehensive and accurate tire wear simulation and measurement, users of ASTM F1046-21 often refer to related standards:
- ASTM F421 - Test Method for Measuring Groove and Void Depth in Passenger Car Tires: Establishes standard procedures for quantifying tread groove depth.
- ASTM F538 - Terminology Relating to Characteristics and Performance of Tires: Provides definitions necessary for clarity and consistency in testing and reporting.
- ASTM F762 - Test Method for Determining Change in Groove (or Void) Depth With Distance Traveled for Passenger Car Tires: Describes measuring tread depth loss as a function of tire usage.
- Other International Standards: As ASTM F1046-21 aligns with internationally recognized principles, it can support compliance with global tire performance and safety regulations.
Conclusion
ASTM F1046-21 empowers tire manufacturers, test laboratories, and automotive researchers to efficiently and consistently prepare artificially worn tires for a wide range of critical tests. Its standardization of the artificial wear process enhances test reliability, supports regulatory approval, and fosters innovation in tire design and performance analysis-all while improving road safety for passenger and light truck vehicles.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM F1046-21 is a guide published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Guide for Preparing Artificially Worn Passenger and Light Truck Tires for Testing". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Tires having reduced groove depth are required in some tire tests to determine changes in performance as a tire wears in service. This guide describes the preparation of artificially worn tires. This guide is not meant to replace the development of worn tires through over-the-road travel when naturally worn tires are required. Further refinements of these techniques may be made with increased field experience. 5.2 The amount of tread rubber to be removed (groove depth reduction) and the final surface texture are selected according to the requirements of a particular testing program. 5.3 The type of test program determines the actual tolerance necessary on the final groove depth. For example, snow traction will require very close control of the final groove depth while vehicle handling tests can accommodate a wider tolerance on the final groove depth. SCOPE 1.1 This guide outlines the preparation of artificially worn tires by tread rubber removal (cutting or grinding, or both) for subsequent performance testing. The purpose is to permit the preparation of test tires with a uniformly reduced tread groove depth and tread geometry that will yield repeatable test results while avoiding the time-consuming and costly over-the-road natural wearing of tires. 1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only. 1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Tires having reduced groove depth are required in some tire tests to determine changes in performance as a tire wears in service. This guide describes the preparation of artificially worn tires. This guide is not meant to replace the development of worn tires through over-the-road travel when naturally worn tires are required. Further refinements of these techniques may be made with increased field experience. 5.2 The amount of tread rubber to be removed (groove depth reduction) and the final surface texture are selected according to the requirements of a particular testing program. 5.3 The type of test program determines the actual tolerance necessary on the final groove depth. For example, snow traction will require very close control of the final groove depth while vehicle handling tests can accommodate a wider tolerance on the final groove depth. SCOPE 1.1 This guide outlines the preparation of artificially worn tires by tread rubber removal (cutting or grinding, or both) for subsequent performance testing. The purpose is to permit the preparation of test tires with a uniformly reduced tread groove depth and tread geometry that will yield repeatable test results while avoiding the time-consuming and costly over-the-road natural wearing of tires. 1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only. 1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ASTM F1046-21 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 83.160.10 - Road vehicle tyres. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM F1046-21 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM F421-07(2013)e1, ASTM F538-09, ASTM F421-07, ASTM F538-03, ASTM F762-94(2000)e1, ASTM F421-00, ASTM F538-99. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM F1046-21 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: F1046 −21
Standard Guide for
Preparing Artificially Worn Passenger and Light Truck Tires
for Testing
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1046; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 3. Terminology
1.1 This guide outlines the preparation of artificially worn 3.1 Definitions:
tires by tread rubber removal (cutting or grinding, or both) for 3.1.1 groove, n—a void that is relatively narrow compared
subsequent performance testing. The purpose is to permit the to its length. F538
preparation of test tires with a uniformly reduced tread groove
3.1.2 groove average depth [L], n—the average of all tire
depth and tread geometry that will yield repeatable test results
groove depth measurements in a single groove. F538
while avoiding the time-consuming and costly over-the-road
3.1.3 groove (void) depth, [L], n—a measurement of the
natural wearing of tires.
perpendiculardistancefromarealorcalculatedreferenceplane
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the
definedbyedgesoftwoadjacentribs(lugs)tothelowestpoint
standard. The values given in parentheses are for information
of contact in the groove (void). F538
only.
3.1.4 treadwear indicator, n—a raised portion of a groove
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
bottomoravoidbottomthatismoldedinatireatfairlyregular
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
intervals around the circumference to provide a visual indica-
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
tion that most of a tread has been worn away. F538
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
3.1.5 void, n—a volume (in the tread band) defined by the
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
lack of rubber; the depth dimension of this volume may vary
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
from point to point in (on) the tread band. F538
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the 4. Summary of Guide
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
4.1 Thisguideoutlinesamethodforgroovedepthmeasure-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
ment and for reduced groove depth calculation followed by
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
removal of a calculated amount of tread rubber and for final
surface grinding to obtain a smooth finish. An optional tire
2. Referenced Documents
break-in period to follow this operation is described. Tech-
2.1 ASTM Standards: niques for photography and measurements to document the
F421Test Method for Measuring Groove andVoid Depth in final tread characteristics are described.
Passenger Car Tires
5. Significance and Use
F538Terminology Relating to Characteristics and Perfor-
5.1 Tires having reduced groove depth are required in some
mance of Tires
tire tests to determine changes in performance as a tire wears
F762Test Method for Determining Change in Groove (or
Void) Depth With Distance Traveled for Passenger Car in service. This guide describes the preparation of artificially
worn tires.This guide is not meant to replace the development
Tires
ofworntiresthroughover-the-roadtravelwhennaturallyworn
tires are required. Further refinements of these techniques may
be made with increased field experience.
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F09 on Tires and is
the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F09.20 on Vehicular Testing.
5.2 The amount of tread rubber to be removed (groove
Current edition approved Sept. 1, 2021. Published September 2021. Originally
depth reduction) and the final surface texture are selected
approved in 1987. Last previous edition approved in 2015 as F1046–01 (2015).
according to the requirements of a particular testing program.
DOI: 10.1520/F1046-21.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
5.3 Thetypeoftestprogramdeterminestheactualtolerance
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
necessary on the final groove depth. For example, snow
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. tractionwillrequireveryclosecontrolofthefinalgroovedepth
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F1046 − 21
while vehicle handling tests can accommodate a wider toler- 7.4.2 Mount the belt sander on the pivot arm allowing 2
ance on the final groove depth. degrees of freedom.
7.4.2.1 The operator removes the major “remaining” tread
6. Apparatus
with a medium grade abrasive belt always following the
specified tread radius and keeping the belt moving across the
6.1 Tread Depth Gauge, meeting the requirements of Test
tread in a lateral motion to avoid flat spots or ridges.
Method F421.
7.4.2.2 Remove the final few thousandths of rubber with a
6.2 Equipment, for determining tread radius.
fine abrasive belt to produce a smooth, matte-like finish.
6.3 Tire Tread Removal Machine, with accessories to re-
7.4.3 Anyothersystemwhichfollowsoriginaltreadcontour
move tread rubber in a predetermined manner.
and tire runout.
7.4.4 Ifitiscriticalforthespecifictest,ensurethatthetread
7. Procedure
element features are consistent and uniform on the entire tread
surface. If not, another tire candidate must be prepared.
7.1 Method Selection—The actual method utilized deter-
mines the accuracy and uniformity of the final groove depth.
7.5 Tire Break-In:
With equipment monitoring the tread surface relative to the
7.5.1 A vehicle break-in schedule of sufficient travel dis-
axis of wheel rotation, a tolerance of 60.51 mm (60.020 in.)
tance may be included to remove the artificial surface texture
is obtainable with most existing equipment. For other equip-
left by the finish grinder and simulate, as closely as possible,
ment that monitors the tire tread surface or base of the groove,
the surface texture of a naturally worn tire. If it is known that
a tolerance of 62% groove depth is obtainable.
tire break-in will have no effect upon the results of some tests,
the break-in requirement may be eliminated.
7.2 Groove Depth Measurement:
7.5.1.1 Mark the direction of tire rotation during the
7.2.1 Mount the tire on a rim approved by theTire and Rim
3 4,5
break-in on the tire.
Association (TRA) or applicable documents for use with
7.5.1.2 The amount of break-in required depends on the
the test tire and inflate to maximum rated pressure.
severity of the driving schedule, road texture, an
...
This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: F1046 − 01 (Reapproved 2015) F1046 − 21
Standard Guide for
Preparing Artificially Worn Passenger and Light Truck Tires
for Testing
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1046; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This guide outlines the preparation of artificially worn tires by tread rubber removal (cutting or grinding, or both) for
subsequent performance testing. The purpose is to permit the preparation of test tires with a uniformly reduced tread groove depth
and tread geometry that will yield repeatable test results while avoiding the time-consuming and costly over-the-road natural
wearing of tires.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
F421 Test Method for Measuring Groove and Void Depth in Passenger Car Tires
F538 Terminology Relating to Characteristics and Performance of Tires
F762 Test Method for Determining Change in Groove (or Void) Depth With Distance Traveled for Passenger Car Tires
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 groove, n—a void that is relatively narrow (comparedcompared to its length). length. F538
3.1.2 groove average depth [L], n—the average of all tire groove depth measurements in a single groove. F538
3.1.3 groove (void) depth, [L], n—a measurement of the perpendicular distance from a real or calculated reference plane defined
by edges of two adjacent ribs (lugs) to the lowest point of contact in the groove (void). F538
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F09 on Tires and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F09.20 on Vehicular Testing.
Current edition approved May 1, 2015Sept. 1, 2021. Published June 2015September 2021. Originally approved in 1987. Last previous edition approved in 20082015 as
F1046 – 01 (2008).(2015). DOI: 10.1520/F1046-01R15.10.1520/F1046-21.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F1046 − 21
3.1.4 treadwear indicator, n—a raised portion of a groove bottom or a void bottom that is molded in a tire at fairly regular intervals
around the circumference to provide a visual indication that most of a tread has been worn away. F538
3.1.5 void, n—a volume (in the tread band) defined by the lack of rubber; the depth dimension of this volume may vary from point
to point in on(on) the tread band. F538
4. Summary of Guide
4.1 This guide outlines a method for groove depth measurement and for reduced groove depth calculation followed by removal
of a calculated amount of tread rubber and for final surface grinding to obtain a smooth finish. An optional tire break-in period
to follow this operation is described. Techniques for photography and measurements to document the final tread characteristics are
described.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Tires having reduced groove depth are required in some tire tests to determine changes in performance as a tire wears in
service. This guide describes the preparation of artificially worn tires. This guide is not meant to replace the development of worn
tires through over-the-road travel when naturally worn tires are required. Further refinements of these techniques may be made with
increased field experience.
5.2 The amount of tread rubber to be removed (groove depth reduction) and the final surface texture are selected according to the
requirements of a particular testing program.
5.3 The type of test program determines the actual tolerance necessary on the final groove depth. For example, snow traction will
require very close control of the final groove depth while vehicle handling tests can accommodate a wider tolerance on the final
groove depth.
6. Apparatus
6.1 Tread Depth Gage,Gauge, meeting the requirements of Test Method F421.
6.2 Equipment, for determining tread radius.
6.3 Tire Tread Removal Machine, with accessories to remove tread rubber in a predetermined manner.
7. Procedure
7.1 Method Selection—The actual method utilized determines the accuracy and uniformity of the final groove depth. With
equipment monitoring the tread surface relative to the axis of wheel rotation, a tolerance of 60.51 mm (60.020 in.) is obtainable
with most existing equipment. For other equipment that monitors the tire tread surface or base of the groove, a tolerance of 62 %
groove depth is obtainable.
7.2 Groove Depth Measurement:
3 4,5
7.2.1 Mount the tire on a rim approved by the Tire and Rim Association (T & RA)(TRA) or applicable documents for use with
the test tire and inflate to maximum rated pressure.
7.2.2 Inspect the tire to determine that there are no tread defects that would affect the finished tire. If such conditions are noted,
do not use the tire for this procedure.
Current yearbook of the Tire and Rim Association, 175 Montrose Ave., West, Suite 150, Copley, OH 44321.4000 Embassy Parkway, Suite 390, Akron, OH 44333.
Current yearbook of the European Tyre and Rim Technical organisation. Available from the ETRTD, 32 Avenue Brugmann, 1060 ETRTO, 78/80, rue Defacqz – B-1060,
Brussels, Belgium.
th
Current yearbook of the Japan Automotive Tire Manufacturers’ Association, Inc. Available from JATMA, 9th Floor, Toranomon Bldg., 1–12No. 33 Mori Bldg., 8
Toranomon 1–Chrome, Minato-ku, floor, 3-8-21 Toranomon, Mineto-Ku, Tokyo, Japan.
F1046 − 21
7.2.3 Measure sufficient tread groove depths at predetermined distances from the tire centerline to document the original tread
depth. Groove measurements are taken at full tread depth, that is, avoiding tie bars, treadwear indicators, and so forth. Average
at least four equally spaced measurements in each groove, in accordance with Test Method F762.
7.3 Rough Tread Cutting:
7.3.1 Approximately 95 % of the desired groove depth reduction is made on a tire tread removal machine equipped with a rotary
electric
...
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