Friction Calculation: Formula for Determining Wheel-Surface Friction

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the friction between wheels and the surface they contact, specifically focusing on the relationship between wheel size and friction. Participants explore the nuances of defining "big" wheels and the appropriate formulas or concepts to apply in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the formula for calculating friction between wheels and surfaces, suggesting that larger wheels may have greater friction.
  • Another participant challenges the claim regarding larger wheels having greater friction, asking for clarification on what "big" means in terms of dimensions like width, diameter, contact patch size, or weight.
  • A subsequent post reiterates the question about the definition of "big," specifying that it refers to the diameter of the wheels while keeping the width constant.
  • One participant points out that friction is typically measured in units of force, questioning how it can be described as "per revolution."
  • Another participant asks for clarification on whether the discussion is about friction or rolling resistance.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relationship between wheel size and friction, with no consensus reached on the definitions or the appropriate concepts to apply.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions regarding the definitions of terms like "friction per revolution" and the distinction between friction and rolling resistance.

961008
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How can we calculate the friction between the wheels and the surface in contact? I know that big wheels will have a greater friction, but what is the formula to calculate it?
 
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What source tells you that big wheels have a greater friction? And what dimension of "big" do you have in mind -- width, diameter, size of contact patch, weight?
 
jbriggs444 said:
What source tells you that big wheels have a greater friction? And what dimension of "big" do you have in mind -- width, diameter, size of contact patch, weight?
The friction I refer to is the friction per revolution of the wheel. The "big" refers to the diameter of the wheels, with the same width.
 
Friction is normally measured in units of force. How does that make sense in describing friction "per revolution"?
 
Do you mean friction or rolling resistance?
 

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