Tyre Construction

Todays trucks are vastly different to the equipment which was used in yesteryear. This evolution is similar to what happened to cars, trucks, and even earth mover vehicles. Nowadays, the average car driver expects his automobile to perform better than a sports car did 20 years ago.

Fleet operators move heavier loads much faster, and the road construction and mining industries use ever-bigger vehicles for higher efficiency and increased productivity.

Tyre construction features

Radial	Bias/Ply

Tread

Bridgestone Firestone have designed a number of tread compounds that are highly resistant to abrasion and cutting. In addition a number of tread patterns are available for different types of opertions. These patterns feature excellent cut resistance, traction and longer servicablilty. These factors are taken into consideration when recommending a tyre best suited for the operation.

Sidewall

The sidewalls are designed to cushion the body plies from shock and cutting, while being able to flex and bend without cracking. The sidewall must also be able to withstand the ravages of the weather without deterioration.

Plies

A tyre is composed of a number of layers or plies. These plies are high tensile nylon cords which are loosely woven together and coated on bothe sides with a rubber compound. These layers of plies help contain the inflation pressure of the tyre in supporting the load. The high-tensile nylon cords have a greater resistance to shock, cutting and heat. This improves the durabilty of the tyre.

Cord body

Determines the strength of the tyre and the ability to flex.

Bead

Anchors the tyre to the rim.

Belts

In radial tyres stabiliser bias ply belts under the base rubber give added protection to the radial plies underneath and determine the shape of the footprint.

Belts

In radial tyres stabiliser bias ply belts under the base rubber give added protection to the radial plies underneath and determine the shape of the footprint.

Liner

In tubeless tyres, this is composed of two or more layers of rubber, designed to retain air or liquid under pressure.