Enter the coefficient of traction and the weight on the drive wheels into the calculator to determine the tractive effort. This calculator helps in understanding the force exerted by a vehicle to move forward.
Tractive Effort Formula
The following formula is used to calculate the tractive effort:
TE = C * W
Variables:
- TE is the tractive effort (Newtons)
- C is the coefficient of traction (no units)
- W is the weight on the drive wheels (Newtons)
To calculate the tractive effort, multiply the coefficient of traction by the weight on the drive wheels.
What is Tractive Effort?
Tractive effort is the force exerted by a vehicle’s drive wheels on the surface it is moving over. It is a crucial factor in vehicle dynamics, affecting acceleration, climbing ability, and the ability to tow or haul loads. The coefficient of traction is a measure of the frictional forces between the wheels and the surface, while the weight on the drive wheels contributes to the maximum potential tractive effort.
How to Calculate Tractive Effort?
The following steps outline how to calculate the Tractive Effort.
- First, determine the coefficient of traction (C).
- Next, determine the weight on the drive wheels (W) in Newtons.
- Use the formula TE = C * W to calculate the Tractive Effort (TE).
- Enter the values into the calculator to verify the result.
Example Problem:
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
Coefficient of traction (C) = 0.3
Weight on drive wheels (W) = 10,000 Newtons
