The Dynamics of Aero
36 Overdrive DECEMBER 2009 I f you want to know whether aerodynamic devices help fuel economy, ask Greg Decker, an owner-operator based in Calgary, Alberta. He's installed aerodynamic equipment on his 2008 Volvo 780 tractor and 2002 Utility 3000R refrigerated trailer. Decker, who has meticulously tracked his fuel performance after every tankful for seven years, says his commitment has made a difference. From Aug. 4 to Sept. 30, 2008, he got 6.05 miles per gallon. During the same period this year, his mpg was 6.81. He credits the Windyne Flex Fairings he had installed on his trailer this past summer. Decker, leased to Caneda Transport, says he previously added aerodynamic mud flaps and airflow tabs to improve handling and curtail road spray, as well as get better fuel economy. If there were other ways to improve, I would try, he says. A combination of higher fuel prices and equipment-altering regulations has the potential of changing how and where truckers will operate. Regulations planned by the California Air Re-sources Board will eventually require aerodynamic technologies, as well as low-rolling resistance tires, The dynamics of aero Anything that cuts your rig's friction with the air will lower fuel costs. What gives the biggest bang for the buck? By MAX KviderA Truck manufactur-ers use computers to simulate how air circulates across surfaces of a model before pro-totypes are built. C ou rt es y of P et er bi lt M ot or s