Transtex, a manufacturer of aerodynamic solutions for commercial vehicle applications, has had six skirts SmartWay verified and pre-approved for Heavy Duty GHG Phase 2.
EPA Phase 2 will require all aerodynamics vendors to test with new protocols, and the option to test using one of the four methods: track testing, wind tunnel, coastdown, and Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD). CFD measures aerodynamics using a computerized model which simulates environmental conditions, allowing the air around a vehicle to be visualized.
CFD can also be used as a supplemental test for SmartWay verification, but not as a standalone test method.
Transtex tested the aerodynamics of their "best selling" skirts using both wind tunnel and CFD test protocols for both SmartWay and for pre-approval. The CFD test is ideal for measuring different conditions and interactions with other vehicles, according to Andrew Mosedale, head of aerodynamics at the Auto Research Center.
"Even though we only needed one type of test, it's important to test using different methods to get a full picture of how the device performs, and to have several sources demonstrating compliance," Kristy Pealow, Transtex marketing director, said. "We encourage our clients to ask for several test reports."
The following products (all trailer skirts) are SmartWay Verified Aerodynamic Devices with EPA pre-approval:
- E-1932T
- EZ-1932T
- E-2330T
- E-2332T
- E-2332TI
- E-2930T
