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“Relaxation Length” describes the lag between a displacement of the tire contact patch and the tire's reaction. This paper describes measurements made on several aircraft tires according to NASA TR-R641; Yawed and Unyawed Rolling, and Static Lateral Relaxation. An equation is provided to predict rolling relaxation length as a function of tire size and loading.

As part of the USAF Improved Tire Life program, a study was conducted on the effect of various levels of braking on wear rates at flight loads and inflations. A skid trailer was modified to accept F-16 tires, wheels and brakes. An antiskid control box was specially built to provide any desired slip level. Tire wear rates were measured as a function of load, inflation, slip and tire construction (control and improved of both bias and radial). Wear rate increased rapidly above a threshold slip level.

This paper is an overview of the factors affecting radial tires and their application to aircraft. Information is provided to assist in making decisions about the suitability of radials in a particular application. Comparisons with equivalent bias tires are shown to illustrate the relative tire behavior.