posted on: October 16, 2019 11:00 am

Bauer Built: The Low-Down on Air Infiltration

Air infiltration damage is caused when the air inside the tire is much higher (80-120 psi) than atmospheric pressure. This “inside-out” damage opens the inner liner and allows air under pressure to migrate within the steel and rubber products. Damage that can lead to air infiltration can be from:

  • Nail or other puncture
  • Objects left in the tire
  • Bad repair
  • Bead damage from mounting/dismounting

Due to the airtight inner-liner, modern tubeless tires may take weeks or months for the air to escape; however, the air is still seeking to escape, and as the high pressure air makes its way back through the puncture channel, it can separate materials within the tire.

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A dual tire can show this effect on the bead area or between crown belts, but most commonly effects the upper sidewall, manifesting itself as a flap or “smiley face.”

“Air Infiltration can cause a catastrophic failure and shouldn’t be taken lightly. This is an issue that can be prevented with the proper tire maintenance and tire installation procedures,” said Store Manager Matt Seffinga, Bauer Built Tire & Service, Rochester, MN. “One common cause of air infiltration is a ripped or torn bead during the tire mounting process. Usually this is not discovered until after there is a failure, which is why it’s extremely important to use the proper mounting lubrication and techniques. This is just another reason to let the professionals at Bauer Built help with your tire and service needs.”

Tips for Avoiding Air Infiltrations

Any object that cuts the inner-liner can lead to air infiltration, thus:

  • Never use a duckbill hammer to mount tubeless truck tires (the #1 cause of bead damage!) as this can harm both the tire and wheel, and is a direct OSHA violation as well
  • Use proper repair techniques, and inspect all repairs prior to returning tire to service
  • Remove and repair nails, screws, and other penetrations promptly, before they can cause air infiltration
  • Never leave service items inside the tire like repair parts, valves, caps, etc.
  • Never intentionally place items like golf balls inside the tire to “act” as a balancing agent, as this can lead to inner-liner damage.

Built on service since 1944, Bauer Built Tire & Service is a top provider of commercial, fleet, agriculture/industrial, retail tire and mechanical services, including alignments, brake and wheel-end work, commercial mechanical repairs and general repairs for both cars and trucks. As such, we care about your long-term investment and are prepared to perform provide services and helpful tips that take pressure off your tires and fleets, minimizing downtime while keeping you safely on the road.

Categories: Bauer Built Blog, Tire Care Tips