Detailed explanation of tire knowledge
1. Basic structure of tire
Tires are an important part of a car. Their main functions are to carry the weight of the car, transmit driving force and braking force, and absorb road vibrations to improve driving comfort. The tire structure is complex and is usually composed of multiple different materials and components. The following are the main components of a tire:
1. Tread: The part of the tire that is in direct contact with the ground, responsible for providing grip and wear resistance. The tread uses different rubber formulas to adapt to different road conditions and usage requirements.
2. Sidewall: The part between the tire tread and the wheel rim, mainly responsible for protecting the internal structure of the tire and providing a certain lateral support force. The thickness and hardness of the sidewall will affect the comfort and durability of the tire.
3. Carcass: The skeleton of the tire, usually composed of fiber cords and rubber layers, used to support the overall shape of the tire and withstand internal and external pressure.
4. Ply: The fabric layer located in the carcass is used to enhance the strength of the tire and prevent the tire from deforming due to force. Common materials include polyester, nylon, etc.
5. Steel belt layer (Belt): mostly used in radial tires, located under the tread, to enhance the strength and rigidity of the tire and reduce rolling resistance.
2. Classification of tires
Tires can be classified according to different standards. The following are several common ways to classify tires:
1. Classification by structure:
- Radial tire: The tire cords are arranged radially, and the carcass and tread are separated, which has better wear resistance and grip.
- Bias tire: The tire cords are arranged crosswise, and the carcass and tread are closely combined. The structure is simple but the durability is poor.
2. Classification by use:
- Passenger car tires: used for family cars, SUVs and other models, emphasizing comfort, grip and fuel economy.
- Truck tires: used for large vehicles such as trucks and vans, and need to have strong load-bearing capacity and wear resistance.
- Industrial tires: used for special-purpose vehicles such as construction machinery and forklifts, with good durability and puncture resistance.
3. Tire specifications and markings
Tire specifications and markings are important bases for users to choose tires, and are usually marked on the side of the tire. Tire specifications are usually expressed in the following form:
Example: P215/65R16 95H
Where:
- P: indicates the tire type, P represents passenger car tires;
- 215: indicates the width of the tread, in millimeters;
- 65: indicates the aspect ratio of the tire, that is, the percentage of tire height to tire width;
- R: indicates the structural type of the tire, R represents radial structure;
- 16: indicates the rim diameter, in inches;
- 95: indicates the load index;
- H: indicates the speed rating.
4. Tire maintenance and replacement
Regular tire maintenance can not only extend the service life of the tire, but also improve driving safety. The following are several important tire maintenance recommendations:
1. Check tire pressure regularly: Maintaining proper tire pressure helps reduce tire wear, improve fuel efficiency, and ensure driving safety. Tire pressure should be adjusted according to the recommendations in the vehicle manual.
2. Tire rotation: Regular tire rotation can make tire wear more even and extend tire service life.
3. Check tire wear: Determine tire wear by checking tire tread depth. When the tread depth is less than 1.6 mm, it is recommended to replace the tire.
4. Avoid excessive loading: Overloading the vehicle will accelerate tire wear, reduce tire life, and increase the risk of tire blowout.