Tire damage is often caused by simple, easily avoidable user errors. Maintaining the right inflation pressure (1), with the appropriate heat build-up (2) within the tire is the most important step to a prolonged tire life. Of course regular vehicle maintenance (3) and selecting the right tire for the appropriate application (4) is also necessary to ensure low costs per mile.
1 – Inflation Pressure
The weight of the load is carried by the air within the tire, not the tire itself. Maintaining the correct inflation pressure is absolutely necessary to guarantee the tire’s performance. Pressure should always be set to, and maintained at the maximum load- / -pressure specification recommended by the tire manufacturer.
COMMON MISTAKES
Underinflating causes excessive deflection in the tire, increasing the heat level and leading to premature tire failure.
Overinflating restricts the natural deflection of the tire, leading to premature tire failure.
SOLUTIONS
Check the appropriate maximum load- / -pressure ratio of a tire and then calculate the best combination for your use. A lower inflation pressure limits load capacity.
Pressure should be checked at regular intervals.
Underinflating and overinflating should be avoided.
2 – Heat build up
Heat is the tire’s worst enemy and is caused by several factors. As a tire rotates under the weight of a vehicle and its load, it repeatedly deforms and recovers, which generates lots of energy. When this energy is released, heat builds up, making it more susceptible to wear, cuts and structural fatigue. The amount of heat build-up is determined by several factors including:
Underinflation
Overloading
High speeds
Harsh braking
Aggressive cornering
Poorly designed or badly maintained roads
Working outside tire specs
Seasonal influences
COMMON MISTAKES
Underinflating and overinflating
Exceeding the load capacity of a tire
Driving at a higher speed than the designated load / speed capacity
Non-professional driving style, with harsh braking and aggressive cornering
Neglected road maintenance
Poor design of the road, for example, the road is too steep
Not taking into consideration seasonal effects
SOLUTIONS
Underinflating and overinflating should be avoided
Ensure the vehicle carries no more than the appropriate load capacity and drives at the corresponding speed
Gradients in the road shouldn’t exceed 5%-6% and should be maintained regularly
Always maintain a professional driving style to ensure a prolonged tire life.
All these factors contribute to an increased deformation / recovery process, generating more energy and heat build-up resulting in a reduced tire lifetime.
3 – Vehicle Maintenance
Finally, vehicle maintenance is another important factor for efficient use. The machine’s performance can cause severe damage to its tires. Neglecting regular vehicle maintenance can severely reduce tire life and increase its running cost.
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