Tubeless Tyres in Cars
The synthesis of butyl rubber revolutionized the concept of tyres in vehicles. Tubeless tyres prepared from this synthetic rubber were introduced in the market and gradually became a benchmark. Tubeless tyres were designed to be more comfortable and convenient in mending.
Therefore, it was widely adopted by car manufacturing companies operating in different regions of the world. To date, it is the widely used and most effective form of tyre for an automobile.
Let’s discuss tubeless tyres in cars, their history, advantages and working in more detail.
History of Tubeless Tyres
Wooden structure tyre with a lining of rubber on the outer side was the earliest form of tyres used in automobiles. Later, the wood was modified into a metal frame, but the performance was not significantly affected. These tyres were considered inefficient due to their low shock-absorbing capabilities. Therefore, these tyres were replaced first with tube tyres and later with tubeless tyres.
The first tubeless tyre was patented by Goodyear tyre Company in 1903. However, it was commercially used for the first time in 1954. Currently available tubeless tyres are prepared from butyl rubber. To make different types of tyres like summer and winter tyres, additives and other components are mixed with the rubber base.
How it Works
Physically, the tubeless tyres resemble a tube tyre. It is manufactured from a U-Shaped rubber strengthened with pieces of wires. However, there is no inner tube used to inflate tyres. The tyre itself acts as a tube and inflates when filled with air. Specially designed tubeless rims are used with tubeless tyres, these rims work as a closed chamber for air tightening. Whereas, a tubeless valve has a rubber sealing that ensures that air does not leak from the air inlet. All the tubeless tyres must fulfill the tyre safety requirement of the UAE prior to being on the roads.
Benefits of Tubeless Tyres
The technology of tubeless tyres is considered efficient. One of the major reasons for this is the contrast of tyres with the shifting automobile standard. Regardless of the wheelbase and suspension type, tubeless tyres suit the car. We have also shortlisted some of the core benefits of using tubeless tyres.
- Low Tyre Pressure: Tubeless tyres remain completely operational even with the lower air pressure. These tyres can work even after the tyre pressure monitoring system shows a warning.
- Fewer Punctures: Tubeless tyres have high width, thus the proportionality of getting punctured automatically reduces.
- Slow Air Release: In tube tyres, the air escaped within a minute or two from the tube. However, the rubber in tubeless tyres traps the air and reduces its leaking pressure. This provides additional time to drive and pull over safely.
- Puncture Mending: Mending a tubeless tyre is more convenient contrary to older versions of tyres. It can even be mended by pouring a liquid sealant over the puncture.
- Stabilize Driving: The distribution of air inside the tyre is higher, this results in a stabilized and comfortable driving experience.
- Fuel Economy: The absence of a tube reduces the overall tyre friction and creates a positive impact on the fuel economy.
Can Tubeless Tyres Get Punctured?
The simple answer to this question is yes. However, the ratio of tyres getting punctured is lower, contrary to traditional tube tyres. The tubeless tyres are made from butyl rubber that is impenetrable and avoids minute punctures and leakages. However, the tubeless tyre can be mended using liquid sealant or rubber glue. The tubeless tyre mending kit is available in the market and will cost around AED 150.
This was all about tubeless tyres in cars. The tyres play a significant role in making the driving experience comfortable. Thus, prior to purchasing any used car for sale in the UAE, ensure that it is equipped with high-quality tubeless tyres.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more information on car tyres.