Airless tires, non-pneumatic tires (NPT), or flat-free tires are tires that are not supported by air pressure.[1][2][3] They can be used on small vehicles such as ride-on lawn mowers and motorized golf carts. They also are used on heavy equipment required to operate on sites where risk of tire punctures is high. Tires composed of closed-cell polyurethane foam are also made for bicycles and wheelchairs.[4]
Advantages & disadvantages
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The main advantages of airless tires is that they do not go flat and need to be replaced less frequently. Heavy equipment outfitted with airless tires will be able to carry more weight and engage in more rugged activities.[5]
Airless tires generally have higher rolling resistance and provide somewhat less suspension than similarly shaped and sized pneumatic tires. Other problems for airless heavy equipment tires include dissipating the heat buildup that occurs when they are driven. Airless tires are often filled with compressed polymers (plastic) rather than air, or can be a solid molded product.
Airless tires are attractive to cyclists, as bicycle tires are much more vulnerable to punctures than motor vehicle tires.
The drawbacks to airless tires depend on the use. Heavy equipment operators who use machinery with solid tires may become fatigued. Any airless tire will be heavier than the rubber tire it is meant to replace.
However, airless tires are not popular with hardcore off-roaders, as those vehicles often need to travel long distances at highway speeds. At speeds above 80 km/h, they can be unstable, causing severe vibrations (and passenger discomfort), and therefore potential for drivers to lose vehicle control.[6]
Installation of airless tires depends on the use. Heavy equipment will need special equipment to mount, but an airless bicycle tire can be mounted with little effort. Solid airless lawnmower tires come pre-installed on the wheel, allowing quick installation.[citation needed]
Examples
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An Airless tire fitted on a MobikeMany bicycle-sharing systems use these tires to reduce maintenance.
In , J. V. Martin in the United States invented a safety tire with hoops of hickory encased in rubber and fitted with criss cross spokes of ribbed rubber. It could drive over 100 mm (4 inches) blocks when tested in a springless test car.[7]
In , Michelin started developing an integrated tire and wheel combination, the "Tweel" (derived from "tire" and "wheel," which are combined into one new, fused part), which operates entirely without air. Michelin claims its "Tweel" has load carrying, shock absorbing, and handling characteristics that compare favorably to conventional pneumatic tires.[8] However, the tire has a lot of vibration when driving over 80 km/h (50 mph). Therefore the tire is only available for golf carts, ATV's and skid steer vehicles. In however Michelin and GM announced their goal of making a new airless tire for passenger vehicles available in . [9] The automotive engineering group of the mechanical engineering department at Clemson University is developing a low energy loss airless tire with Michelin through the NIST ATP project.
Resilient Technologies and the University of Wisconsin&#;Madison's Polymer Engineering Center are creating a "non-pneumatic tire", which is a round polymeric honeycomb wrapped with a thick, black tread. The initial version of the tire is for the Humvee and is expected to be available in .[10][11] It is also the first group to make a commercially available mass-produced airless tire after its acquisition by Polaris,[12] albeit only as coupled with their vehicle. The tire trademark is "Terrainarmor".
Bridgestone is developing the Bridgestone Air-Free Concept Tire, which can hold 150 kg (330 lb) per tire.[13]
The Energy return wheel (ERW) has the outer edge of the tire connected to the inner rim by a system of springs. The springs can have their tension changed to vary the handling characteristics.[14]
Hankook is developing the iFlex airless tire.[15]
However, many tire manufacturing companies are yet to start making airless tire due to different limitations. Major companies like Goodyear say its airless tires won't be road-ready until .[16]
See also
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References
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Electric scooters have transformed urban commuting, presenting a green and practical solution for navigating city streets. A critical element influencing the performance and ride comfort of electric scooters is the type of tires they utilize. This blog post delves into the ongoing debate surrounding electric scooter wheels: solid tires versus pneumatic tires. We'll explore the advantages and disadvantages of each option, aiding you in making a well-informed decision when selecting the right tires for your electric scooter.
Solid tires, true to their name, are crafted from solid rubber or other durable materials. They eliminate the need for inflation and are essentially puncture-proof. On the flip side, pneumatic tires resemble those found on bicycles and cars, being filled with air and featuring a flexible outer casing. Let's examine the pros and cons of both solid and pneumatic tires for electric scooters.
Solid tires are virtually maintenance-free, sparing you the hassle of checking air pressure, inflating tires, or dealing with punctures. This convenience makes them ideal for daily use. In contrast, pneumatic tires demand regular maintenance, involving the monitoring and adjustment of tire pressure, and are prone to flats and punctures, which can be inconvenient.
Solid tires stand strong against flats and punctures, ensuring you can confidently ride without the fear of being stranded due to a damaged tire. On the other hand, pneumatic tires are more susceptible to punctures, potentially requiring tire repair or replacement and causing downtime.
Solid tires outshine pneumatic tires in terms of durability, boasting a longer lifespan and the ability to withstand rough road conditions for thousands of miles. Conversely, pneumatic tires are generally less durable, especially if frequently exposed to rough or debris-strewn roads.
Solid tires offer consistent performance by maintaining stable air pressure, resulting in a reliable ride quality.
Solid tires provide a harsher ride compared to pneumatic tires. The absence of cushioning puts more stress on the scooter's frame and your body, especially on uneven surfaces. In contrast, pneumatic tires offer a smoother and more comfortable ride, absorbing shocks and vibrations for an enjoyable journey, particularly on bumpy roads.
Pneumatic tires outperform solid tires in terms of traction, especially on wet or slippery surfaces, enhancing safety during rides.
Pneumatic tires allow for customization by adjusting tire pressure. Lower pressure increases shock absorption, while higher pressure improves speed and efficiency.
When deciding between solid and pneumatic tires for your electric scooter, consider the following factors:
Usage:
Solid tires are convenient for commuting on well-maintained roads, while pneumatic tires are preferable for those navigating rough terrain or seeking a smoother ride.
Maintenance Preference:
Evaluate your willingness to invest time and effort in maintenance. If you prefer a low-maintenance option, solid tires might be the better choice.
Comfort vs. Convenience:
Consider whether you are willing to sacrifice some ride comfort for the convenience of not dealing with flat tires and regular maintenance. Let your personal preference guide your decision.
Terrain:
Local terrain and weather conditions should influence your choice. Pneumatic tires are better suited for wet or uneven surfaces.
In conclusion, the decision between solid and pneumatic tires for your electric scooter boils down to your individual needs and preferences. Solid tires offer convenience and durability, while pneumatic tires provide a smoother and more comfortable ride. Understanding the pros and cons of each type will empower you to make an informed decision that enhances your electric scooter experience. Consider your local conditions, and how you plan to use your scooter, and choose the tires that align with your priorities.
Are you interested in learning more about 8.5 inch solid scooter tyres? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!