How Tires Are Made: A Non-Technical Guide for Tire Buyers
Understand the different types of tire construction and how they affect performance, durability, and cost.
Tire construction is the way that a tire is made, and it is important for determining the tire's performance, durability, and cost.
There are two main types of tire construction: bias-ply and radial.
Bias-ply tires are made with layers of fabric cords that are laid at an angle to each other. This type of construction provides
good traction and durability, but it can also lead to a rougher ride. Bias-ply tires are typically used on trucks and older cars.
Radial tires are made with layers of fabric cords that are laid radially, or perpendicular to the rim. This type of construction provides
better fuel efficiency and handling than bias-ply tires, but it can also be more expensive. Radial tires are the most common type of tire
used on cars today.
When choosing tires, it is important to consider the type of vehicle you drive, the climate you live in, and your driving habits. If you drive a truck or SUV, you may want to consider bias-ply tires for their durability. If you drive a car and are concerned about fuel efficiency, you may want to consider radial tires. And if you live in a cold climate, you may want to choose tires with a winter tread pattern for better traction in snow and ice.
No matter what type of tire you choose, it is important to make sure that they are properly inflated and rotated regularly. This will help to extend the life of your tires and improve their performance.
Here are some additional things to consider when choosing tires:
Load rating: The load rating is a measure of the maximum weight that a tire can safely carry. Make sure to choose tires with a load rating that is equal to or greater than the weight of your vehicle.
Speed rating: The speed rating is a measure of the maximum speed that a tire can safely handle. Make sure to choose tires with a speed rating that is equal to or greater than the speed that you typically drive.
Treadwear rating: The treadwear rating is a measure of how long a tire is expected to last. A higher treadwear rating means that the tire is expected to last longer.
Traction rating: The traction rating is a measure of how well a tire can grip the road in wet conditions. A higher traction rating means that the tire is expected to perform better in wet conditions.
Temper rating: The temper rating is a measure of the flexibility of a tire. A higher temper rating means that the tire is more flexible and will provide a smoother ride.
What Is Noise Reducing Tire Technology?
Noise-reducing tire technology is designed to help reduce the amount of road noise that is produced by tires. This can be achieved through a variety of methods, such as using softer rubber compounds, incorporating sound-absorbing materials into the tire construction, or using special tread patterns. Some of the most popular noise-reducing tire technologies include:
Bridgestone B-Silent: This technology uses a softer rubber compound and a special tread pattern.
Continental ContiSilent: This technology uses sound-absorbing materials in the tire's sidewalls.
Dunlop Noise Shield Technology: This technology uses a special tread pattern and sound-absorbing materials.
Goodyear SoundComfort Technology: This technology uses a softer rubber compound and a special tread pattern.
Hankook sound absorber: This technology uses a sound absorber in the tire's sidewall.
Michelin Acoustic Technology: This technology uses a softer rubber compound and a special tread pattern.
Pirelli Noise Cancelling System (PNCS): This technology uses sound waves to cancel out road noise.
What Is Tire Rolling Resistance? Understanding Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE)
Tire rolling resistance is the force that resists the rolling motion of a tire. It is a major factor in determining a vehicle's fuel economy. Tires with lower rolling resistance will help to improve fuel economy, while tires with higher rolling resistance will have a negative impact on fuel economy.
The Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards are set by the U.S. government and require automakers to meet certain fuel economy targets for their fleet of vehicles. Tires with lower rolling resistance can help automakers meet these targets and comply with CAFE regulations.
What Does the M+S Brand Mean?
The M+S brand is a designation that indicates that a tire is suitable for use in mud and snow. Tires with the M+S brand have been tested and certified to meet certain performance standards for mud and snow traction.
The M+S brand is not a guarantee that a tire will perform well in mud and snow, but it is a good indication that the tire will have better traction than tires without the M+S brand.