Mr. O'Neill, We did a lot of work on the subject in the 80's, most of it
focused on developing measurement methods for quantifying any spray
reduction benefit attributable to devices that were equipped on a vehicle.
The single biggest factor causing spray is turbulent air flow around the
vehicle. The wake turbulence created by a truck moving through the air at
highway speeds is substantial, causing the water picked up by the tires to
be atomized. Once it is atomized and in the vehicle's slip stream, it is
too late to do anything about it. Anything that can be done to generate
laminar airflow around the sides and rear of the vehicles will produce both
fuel efficiency and spray reduction benefits. Aero designs will, by their
nature, tend to encapsulate and enclose wheel well areas, which will
contribute to containing water picked up by the tires, within the wheel
wells. Trucks shaped like aircraft fuselages are our best bet. Best of
luck. R.M. Clarke
-----Original Message-----
From: Albert O'Neill [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Tuesday, August 27, 2002 5:15 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Spray Suppression Devices
Dear Fellow Members
I am a senior consultant with Estill and Associates Pty Ltd, Management
Consultants, who have been contracted by the Queensland Department of
Transport Australia on behalf of the National Road Transport Commission in
Australia to research and investigate the application of spray suppression
on heavy vehicles. It would be very much appreciated if anyone has any
experience or knowledge or information regarding the use of spray
suppression that you contact me with whatever experience or knowledge you
may be able to pass on. I have attached a short specific questionnaire
which you may like to consider and if possible complete and return to me by
no later than the 6th September. The project has a short time frame and I
thank you for your early reply.
Look forward to receiving worldwide best practice for the above.
Regards
Albert O'Neill
Senior Consultant
Estill & Associates Pty Ltd
Level 1, 170 Burswood Road
Burswood WA 6100
Tel. (08) 9355 0300
[log in to unmask]
www.estill.com.au
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