Too Hot to Handle: Why Heat and Commercial Tires Don’t Mix
Hot weather may create bigger problems than an uncomfortable cab. Scorching temperatures and sizzling asphalt can cause problems for commercial tires. Conducting regular inspections and maintenance can help you protect those assets.
The Impact of Heat on Commercial Tires
Heat softens the rubber compounds in commercial tires, compromising the integrity of the treads, bead, casing and sidewall. As the tire weakens, the risk of a flat or blowout increases. Higher temperatures also raise tire pressure as the air expands inside the casing. That presents safety hazards for commercial drivers and other motorists.
Commercial tire rubber will begin to break down and flex if it reaches 200⁰ F, increasing the tire’s contact with the road. That creates heat buildup which negatively impacts fuel efficiency and rolling resistance.
Common Commercial Tire Problems Caused by Heat
Faster wear: Rubber deterioration can lead to cracks and bulges, reducing a tire’s lifespan. Excess wear also reduces a tire’s ability to be retreaded.
Blowouts: High temperatures, increased internal air pressure and weakened rubber are a recipe for a tire blowout. That can decrease maneuverability and braking and cause collisions.
Decreased traction: Hot tires are more likely to bend, making it difficult to grip the road, especially in wet driving conditions. Higher rates of wear also eat away at tire treads, further affecting traction during braking and turning.
Tread separation: Tire tread can separate from the layers beneath it once rubber and chemical compounds fail. That can result in tread separation which may cause you to lose control while driving.
Sidewall damage: As temperatures rise, sidewalls weaken and become more susceptible to cuts, punctures and cracks.
Factors Contributing to Tire Heat Buildup
Load: Exceeding the maximum load capacity on your commercial tires can contribute to heat buildup and structural damage.
Speed: Tires generate heat as they rotate, so the faster you drive, the hotter your tires become.
Inflation: Underinflated tires are prone to deformation, which can increase heat buildup and rolling resistance. Overinflated tires can cause localized heat buildup and reduce impact absorption.
How to Protect Your Tires from Heat Damage
- Check your tire pressure before driving when the rubber is coolest to get an accurate reading.
- Take driving breaks every two hours or 100 miles to cool down hot tires.
- Cover your tires or park in a shady spot to protect them from direct sunlight.
- Douse your tires in cold water to cool them down quickly.
- Stick to the speed limit or drive slightly slower to reduce tire rotation and heat buildup.
- Ensure your cargo load is balanced and secure to avoid uneven tire wear.
- Avoid excessive braking, sharp turns and sudden acceleration.
Technology to Support Heat Resistance
Tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) and tire management software allow you to monitor your tire pressure in real time. Monitoring systems also provide diagnostic reports with actionable insights so you can complete preventative tire maintenance.
Heat-resistant tires are made of special rubber compounds that can withstand thermal degradation. They’re designed to perform in high temperatures without losing their structural integrity. Heat-resistant tires also have reinforced sidewalls and tread patterns designed to dissipate heat and reinforce the construction.
Shop Commercial Tires at Bauer Built
Are you looking for new commercial tires? Come to a Bauer Built location and our expert technicians will help you find the right style and brand to get the job done.
Categories: Bauer Built Blog