REDUCTION OF TRUCK-INDUCED SPLASH AND SPRAY

This article reviews previous research on the aerodynamic disturbance caused by trucks traveling on a roadway and on truck-induced splash and spray on wet pavements. The major part of the article is devoted to discussion of an FHWA study on splash and spray which was conducted under Project 1U, "Safety Aspects of Size and Weight of Heavy Vehicles," in the Federally Coordinated Program of Highway Research and Development. The study included wind tunnel experiments, driver simulator experiments, full-scale tests with various truck configurations and truck-mounted devices to improve air flow around the trucks and reduce splash and spray, cost effectiveness analyses, and over-the-road evaluations in coordination with manufacturers. In conclusion, it is stated that this research successfully demonstrated that the adverse aerodynamic effects of large trucks can be reduced by devices that effectively reduce splash and spray. Briefly mentioned are current research efforts in this area by FHWA and NHTSA.