5 Reasons Why Your Business Needs Commercial Tires?

14 Apr.,2024

 

Heavy duty truck tire information

Tires are critical vehicle components because they connect trucks and trailers to the road and allow drivers to steer safely on diverse terrains. Since they play such an important role in vehicle operation, it can be beneficial for drivers to understand how to prevent wear and tear. Learn more about tire components and get helpful maintenance tips.

Facts about commercial tires

There’s a lot more to tires than you might think. For example, did you know one tire is composed of more than 200 raw materials? Or that motor carriers (MC) and drivers can receive poor Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) scores because of damaged tires? Check out the infographic below to learn more.  

Parts of a tire

Standard radial tires consist of seven main layers. Each part works differently to enhance flexibility, durability, safety and fuel efficiency. The information below outlines where each layer is located and its purpose: 

1.    Inner liner

This makes up the innermost part of the tire and is composed of synthetic rubber. Its function is to hold high-pressure air inside so it can’t seep through the rubber structure.

2.    Carcass ply

The carcass ply is directly above the inner liner and consists of textile fiber cords bonded into the rubber. This layer strengthens the tire, helps it resist pressure and determines the loading capacity.

3.    Bead

The bead is the underlining edge of the tire that secures it to the rim. It’s composed of bead wire, steel and rubber, and works to keep the tire and rim fastened together in the event of sudden air pressure reduction.

4.    Sidewall

The sidewall is located between the tread and the bead and has several functions. It keeps the carcass ply from receiving damage, protects the tire from rough impacts while driving and gives it flexibility.

5.    Belts

The belt, also called the crown ply, is made of resistant steel cords bonded into the rubber. It’s located between the tread and carcass, and acts as a reinforcing layer to keep those parts connected. 

6.    Cap ply

This layer is directly underneath the tread and is made of polyester fabric that helps hold everything in place. Its function is to prevent the tires from overheating due to friction, and help them keep their shape at high speeds. 

7.    Tread

The tread is the outermost layer and contains a blend of natural and synthetic rubbers that help the tires resist heat. Because it makes direct contact with the road, it has the thickest rubber.

What the sidewall information means

Information such as the Tire Identification Number (TIN), ply material, and Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec) are labeled on the sidewall. You can also find the tire size — a combination of numbers and letters that describe the:

  • Section width. A three-digit number that measures (in millimeters) the tire’s outermost most edge to its innermost edge.
  • Sidewall aspect ratio. This indicates the sidewall’s height from rim to tread as a percentage of the section width. For example, if the number is 70, that means the height is 70 percent of the tire’s width. The bigger the number, the taller the sidewall. The smaller the number, the shorter the sidewall.
  • Type of construction. There are two types of tire construction — radial and bias-ply. An uppercase R indicates radial tires. A tire labeled with an uppercase B or D represents bias-ply tires.   
  • Rim diameter. The number indicating the size (in inches) of the wheel that fits the tire.
  • Service Description. The service description includes the load index and speed rating. The load index specifies the maximum carrying capacity of the tire. The speed rating indicates the top speed a properly installed tire can reach.

Tire maintenance and safety tips

Driving on worn-out or damaged tires is dangerous and is against Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules. If a truck driver is caught driving on unsafe tires, the FMCSA will assign points that can majorly impact a carrier’s CSA score. Avoid violations and poor CSA scores by following these tips to keep your tires in good shape:

  • Perform a pre-trip inspection
  • Inflate to recommended PSI
  • Wash the tires and wheels
  • Get tires rotated regularly
  • Practice good driving habits

FleetNet America® tire services

Need help maintaining your tires? FleetNet America offers a preventive maintenance (PM) program and tire repair services to cover all your needs. For more information, call 877-559-9640.

Maximize Fleet Performance with the Right Tires

When you purchase new commercial tires, you have an opportunity to improve fleet handling and fuel economy while cutting operation costs. All About Tire & Brake Tire Pros stocks the latest commercial tires from major brands, making it easy to get the exact tire you need in the size you need it.

Tire technology is always evolving, and our inventory is diverse to make shopping a quick and convenient process.

We serve Mabelvale, AR , Little Rock, AR , Benton, AR, and surrounding areas.

Should I Switch Commercial Tires?

Thinking about switching commercial truck tire brands or to a different tire model?

The best tire for your fleet depends on several factors, including:

  • Overall Longevity
  • Fuel Efficiency
  • Retread Capabilities
  • Manufacturer Warranties

You'll want to review your business needs and select tires with the features that best match your application. Our staff can assist you in your search. Call today to learn more about our commercial tire inventory and locate a cost-effective and quality choice for your fleet.

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5 Reasons Why Your Business Needs Commercial Tires?

All About Tire & Brake Tire Pros