Tire Load Capacity: The TRA Load Formula and a Proposed Revisions This chapter traces the evolution of the TRA (Tire and Rim Association) load-carrying capacity formula for passenger tires, compares it with an alternative approach based on constant relative deflection, and proposes a new formula better suited to modern low-profile, large-rim tires. Keywords: tire load […]
Understanding UN GTR No.16: Global Technical Regulations for Tires UN Global Technical Regulation No.16 (UN GTR No.16) establishes unified performance requirements for new pneumatic radial tires used on vehicles with gross mass up to 4,536 kg (10,000 lbs). This guide summarizes the regulation’s scope, test methods, key thresholds, and the history of its amendments. Keywords: […]
Rubber Calendering: Common Problems and Solutions This Q&A guide covers the essential questions about rubber calendering — process principles, machine types, deflection compensation, calendering effect, pre-calendering preparation, sheet pressing, plying, profiling, fabric frictioning, and common quality defects with their root causes. Keywords: rubber calendering; calender; calendering effect; frictioning; topping; fabric coating; rubber processing 1. What […]
Common Passenger Tire Failure Types, Causes & Prevention Tires are among the most critical components on a vehicle — they support the entire weight, transmit traction and braking forces, absorb road shocks, and ensure safety, stability, comfort, and fuel economy. Tire condition directly determines driving safety. This guide covers the most common failure types seen […]
Abstract This study investigates why two identical extruder lines producing tire tread components show different quality consistency. We compared production batch sizes, die opening ratios, extrusion discharge and take-off temperatures, and line quality control methods. Results show that increasing batch sizes, optimizing operating methods, and setting proper plasticization temperatures can effectively improve tread yield. Keywords: […]
Abstract EU passenger vehicle CO₂ regulations are driving automotive R&D toward new materials and technologies that improve energy efficiency. A key avenue is reducing tire rolling resistance to improve fuel economy, while maintaining or even enhancing safety and service life. “Green tires” have already significantly cut rolling resistance by using synthetic elastomer blends with silica-silane […]
Abstract Carcass cord bulge failure in truck and bus radial (TBR) tires predominantly occurs in the shoulder area and is a critical issue affecting tire performance and safety. This study examined 13 market-returned failed tires of various patterns and sizes through a multi-step analytical methodology: visual inspection, X-ray detection, shearography, microscopic analysis, FTIR spectroscopy, and […]
1. Introduction To most consumers, a tire is nothing more than a “round, black consumable that costs a surprising amount.” Tires are widely regarded as low-technology commodities, and buyers often choose purely on price. But anyone who has walked through a tire manufacturing plant comes away impressed: a standard passenger-car radial tire contains more than […]