The expected discontinuance in manufacturing a standard-reference test tire will lead to changes to an ASTM International standard (E1136, Specification for P195/75R14 Radial Standard Reference Test Tire). Users of this specification are invited to join an ASTM task group that is working to manage this transition.

The tire has been used extensively since its introduction in the late 1980s. However, the materials used to produce the tire are dated and in limited supply because modern, mass-produced tires have evolved to use new kinds of polymers. As a result, it has become difficult for the sole manufacturer of the original tire (Michelin) to procure materials needed for reproduction. Michelin is working with ASTM Committee F09 on Tires on this issue.

The task group will explore the best ways to transition from the E1136 tire to an alternate reference tire (one possibility is F2493, Specification for P225/60R16 97S Radial Standard Reference Test Tire). Because the E1136 tire is still used in many standards and regulations, it is important to give regulatory bodies and industry time to consult with stakeholders, agree on an alternate specification, and publish revisions.

The task group encourages all E1136 users to join its efforts to determine the steps and timeline for this transition.

ASTM welcomes participation in the development of its standards. Become a member at www.astm.org/JOIN.

For more news in this sector, visit www.astm.org/sn-transportation.

ASTM Committee F09 on Tires Next Meeting: Oct. 13-14, 2015, MAPS Air Museum, North Canton, Ohio
Media Inquiries: Nathan Osburn, tel +1.610.832.9603; nosburn@astm.org
Technical Contact: Angela Wolynski, Michelin North America, tel +1.864.422.4985; angela.wolynski@us.michelin.com
ASTM Staff Contact: Julia Lively, tel +1.610.832.9681; jlively@astm.org

Release #9880