Overview
ISO 6014:1986 specifies a standardized test method to determine the ground speed of earth-moving machinery. It applies to both wheeled and track‑laying (tracked) machines and is intended for use in a variety of test and reporting contexts. The standard requires that the machine condition (for example, laden or unladen) be recorded in the test report so results are repeatable and comparable.
Keywords: ISO 6014:1986, ground speed, earth-moving machinery, wheeled, tracked, test method, measurement accuracy, test report.
Key Topics
- Scope and applicability: Method covers wheeled and track‑laying earth‑moving machinery and may be used for many testing purposes; machine condition must be stated.
- Test equipment: Acceptable apparatus include a light source, photosensitive transistor, digital time recorder (or variable time counter), tape measure (minimum 25 m), adjustable supports for sensors, battery/inverter or mains power. The standard includes an arrangement diagram and notes on portable setups.
- Test track and conditions: Minimum track length is 20 m. For horizontal tracks, height difference between two points less than 25 m must not exceed 100 mm. Transverse slope must not exceed 1 on 40. Wind speed for directional tests should not exceed 6 m/s. Engines and driveline must be warmed to normal service temperatures before testing.
- Measurement precision: Required measurement accuracies are specified: length of test track to ±0.25% and time interval to ±2.0% (or equivalent digital timing). Speed is calculated as V = I / t (length divided by time).
- Repeatability and averaging: Tests must include at least three runs in each direction for horizontal tracks, and at least six runs in each direction where slope effects are measured. The reported test speed is the average of individual measured speeds; the average should be rounded to the first decimal (km/h).
- Test report content: The standard requires documenting reference to ISO 6014, machine type and identification, wheeled or tracked, condition (laden/unladen), tyre details and pressures, auxiliary equipment, measured track length, surface type, slope data, atmospheric conditions (including wind speed and direction), gearbox ratio, measured speeds and the computed average speed, and other specific details relevant to the test.
Applications
- Ensuring consistent, comparable ground-speed data for performance verification and product specifications.
- Supporting safety-related testing where accurate vehicle speed knowledge is required (e.g., braking tests per related standards).
- Field measurements on slopes, natural ground or paved surfaces using portable apparatus.
- Producing traceable test reports used by manufacturers, test labs and regulatory bodies.
Related Standards
- ISO 6014:1986 references general machinery and test practices and should be used in conjunction with other standards for specific test types (for example, standards that specify braking, load or stability test conditions).
This concise guide highlights the practical requirements of ISO 6014:1986 for measuring ground speed of earth‑moving machinery and the information to include in a compliant test report.
