ASTM E556 (officially ASTM E556/E556M) is a standard test method used for the static calibration of force or torque transducers and associated instrumentation on a mounted test wheel using a calibration platform. This test method uses a calibration platform that involves the calibration of the force transducer and related instruments of a mounted test wheel. The values stated in SI should be considered as standard.
ASTM E556/556M Standard Test Method for Calibrating a Wheel Force or Torque Transducer Using a Calibration Platform (User Level)
What is ASTM E556?
What is the Scope of ASTM E556?
The importance of this method lies in accurately calibrating the transducer, as well as the related electronics, reading, and recording devices. The calibration results can be used to make mechanical or electrical changes until the readout matches the calibration input.
ASTM E556 Sample Preparation Guide
The wheel sample should be level within ±0.25 prior to the calibration.
ASTM E556 Testing Procedure and Requirements
In ASTM E556, the test wheel and hitch are subjected to vertical static loads. Traction forces are applied to the locked wheel at the tire platform interface. Using an electronic digital meter, the wheel transducer’s linearity and hysteresis are determined. Test wheel force is measured with a calibration platform. The output of the transducer is compared with the calibration platform. Figure 1 shows a wheel force transducer.
ASTM E556 Result Analysis and Interpretation
This test method is a static calibration that simulates the traction force between a tire and the pavement.
- For a force-measuring system, the instrumentation readout is directly proportional to the calibration force input.
- For a torque-measuring system, the instrumentation readout measures the calibration force input and the effective tire radius.
The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are considered separately as standard.
Updated on August 28, 2026
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