Course in Snow Traction Optimisation
Online course of 300 h in snow traction optimisation. 6 modules covering UNECE Regulation No. 117 (tyres: rolling resistance, grip and 3PMSF marking), Regulation (EU) 2020/740 (tyre labelling) and MSC Adams (FTire). Assigned tutor and open enrolment.
Take the controls.
Run a real engineering trade-off from this field. Move the sliders, watch the model react in real time and beat the challenge.
What you will be able to do
Explain the traction mechanisms on snow and ice.
Select tyres and compounds suited to low temperatures.
Choose chains and auxiliary devices according to the application.
Configure the vehicle to improve traction and stability.
Apply driving and operating techniques on snow.
Plan winter service and equipment maintenance.
Develop a winter traction optimisation plan.
Who it's for
- Tyre engineer wishing to specialise in snow traction optimisation.
- Winter fleet technician wishing to specialise in snow traction optimisation.
- Snowplough machine operator wishing to specialise in snow traction optimisation.
- Road winter maintenance technician wishing to specialise in snow traction optimisation.
- Vehicle test engineer wishing to specialise in snow traction optimisation.
- Ski resort technician wishing to specialise in snow traction optimisation.
- Graduates in engineering or science seeking to enter road winter maintenance.
What you'll work with
- UNECE Regulation No. 117 (tyres: rolling resistance, grip and 3PMSF marking)
- Regulation (EU) 2020/740 (tyre labelling)
- ASTM F1805 (tyre traction on snow)
- EN 16662-1 (supplementary grip devices)
- ÖNORM V 5117 (snow chains)
- UNECE Regulation No. 54 (tyres for commercial vehicles)
6 modules · 300 h
1.1Mechanical properties of snow and ice1.2Fresh, compacted, wet and frozen snow1.3Traction mechanisms: shear and interlocking1.4Typical coefficients of grip1.5Effect of temperature on grip1.6Sinkage and resistance to forward motion1.7Differences between wheels and tracks1.8Winter service machinery1.9Terminology and marking of winter tyres1.10Workshop: characterisation of three snow conditions
2.1Compounds that retain flexibility in the cold2.2Tread patterns with sipes and their function2.3Depth and void volume2.4Marking of snow and ice suitability2.5Recommended cold pressures2.6Wear and loss of performance2.7Studded tyres and their legality2.8Comparison between solutions2.9Selection by machine type and service2.10Practice: tyre selection for a service
3.1Chain types and their coverage3.2Net, ladder and mixed chains3.3Correct fitting and tensioning3.4Automatic fitting systems3.5Damage to tyres and bodywork3.6Maximum speed with chains3.7Textile and emergency alternatives3.8Chain maintenance and storage3.9Legality of use on public roads3.10Practice: fitting and checking chains
4.1Weight distribution and ballasting4.2Four-wheel drive and locking differentials4.3Traction control and its calibration4.4Pressures and variable pressure systems4.5Rubber tracks and their advantages on snow4.6Pushing equipment and its effect on traction4.7Protecting the vehicle from salt and ice4.8Pre-heating and cold starting4.9Preparing the vehicle for the season4.10Practice: configuring a service vehicle
5.1Smooth starting and wheelspin control5.2Braking and distances on snow5.3Descents and use of engine braking5.4Driving with pushing equipment5.5Night work and visibility5.6Recovering a stuck vehicle5.7Coordination between machines5.8Safety of pedestrian personnel5.9Communications during operation5.10Practice: operating procedure during snowfall
6.1Winter campaign planning6.2Specific maintenance against salt and moisture6.3Management of de-icing agents and corrosion6.4Winter service indicators6.5Staff training6.6Service cost and budgeting6.7Common errors in preparation6.8Real incident case studies6.9Continuous improvement between seasons6.10Final project: winter operation plan for a fleet
How you'll learn
Training 100 % online on the SEIUM campus, with downloadable material, recorded classes and an assigned technical tutor. No fixed timetables: students progress at their own pace within the intake, which makes it possible to combine study with work.
Each module combines theory, guided reading of the original standard and applied exercises. The working software is MSC Adams (FTire), MATLAB/Simulink, advanced Excel, in free, academic or evaluation versions. Tests are studied using real procedures for traction testing on snowy tracks, comparison of tyres and chains, and measurement of slip on ice. Assessment is continuous by module plus the final integrating project.
Build it end to end
Your final project follows the real engineering workflow, step by step, reviewed by your tutor.
Explain the traction mechanisms on snow and ice.
Select tyres and compounds suited to low temperatures.
Choose chains and auxiliary devices according to the application.
Configure the vehicle to improve traction and stability.
Apply driving and operating techniques on snow.
Where this takes you
Requirements
- No previous degree is required.
- Internet connection and a computer capable of running the programme's software.
- Sufficient Spanish to follow technical regulatory texts.
Ready to start?
Send your application today. Our admissions team replies within 72 hours with your study plan and funding options.
Frequently asked questions
The programme comprises 300 hours in total, spread over 3 to 5 months. That is an average of 10 to 15 hours per week, compatible with full-time work.
You work with MSC Adams (FTire), MATLAB/Simulink, advanced Excel. Free, academic or evaluation versions are used, and the tutor indicates the free alternative where one exists.
SEIUM's own diploma upon passing the continuous assessment and the integrating project. It is in-house training, not an official Ministry qualification.
Yes. Modules passed in a course or Postgraduate Diploma in the same area are recognised towards the higher programme. Check the recognition policy when you enrol.
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